A Few Links to Basic Writing Rules and Tips
There are some standard writing rules for broadcast style reporting. Most of the rules are intended to maintain clear communication throughout the newsroom, particularly when deadlines are approaching or the newscast is in full-swing.
Doc Hayden's Writing Principles
The hardest thing about any kind of media writing is being both precise and conversational, and that applies doubly to broadcast writing. You have to be 100% accurate but still sound as though you’re talking to a friend.
1. Concise
2. Conversational
3. Connected to your video
Broadcast Writing Techniques
1. Use present tense (as long as it’s accurate).
2. Use active voice.
3. Simplify the lead.
4. Help the anchor with the following tactics:
(a) difficult words
*For example: Bahrain (bah-RAIN) or Jacques Chirac (sheer-ROCK)
(b) numbers
*For example: FOUR, NINE, 75, 2010, TWO THOUSAND, ONE MILLION
(c) titles
*For example: THE MOVIE “INCEPTION” OR THE MOVIE INCEPTION
(d) formats: indented, 1-sentence paragraphs on the right side of the page
5. Simplify attribution
*says – not “states,” “expresses,” “claims,” “declares,” “avows,” “avers,” etc.
1. Concise
2. Conversational
3. Connected to your video
Broadcast Writing Techniques
1. Use present tense (as long as it’s accurate).
2. Use active voice.
3. Simplify the lead.
4. Help the anchor with the following tactics:
(a) difficult words
*For example: Bahrain (bah-RAIN) or Jacques Chirac (sheer-ROCK)
(b) numbers
*For example: FOUR, NINE, 75, 2010, TWO THOUSAND, ONE MILLION
(c) titles
*For example: THE MOVIE “INCEPTION” OR THE MOVIE INCEPTION
(d) formats: indented, 1-sentence paragraphs on the right side of the page
5. Simplify attribution
*says – not “states,” “expresses,” “claims,” “declares,” “avows,” “avers,” etc.
The Golden Rule
Read aloud when you’re writing! If it doesn’t sound good, it isn’t.
Read aloud when you’re writing! If it doesn’t sound good, it isn’t.
Related Links
Recommended Style Book
This is a good style book to use throughout the program and as a working professional.
You can find it on Amazon.
