A news flash is a piece of breaking news that interrupts radio or television broadcasting. It updates the audience on current events and can be local, national or international. It can include a mix of hard and soft news. A good newsflash will have a compelling lead and follow the inverted pyramid style by presenting the most important facts first and then revealing additional details. It should also cite its sources. A newsflash should end with practical info (traffic, weather, a summary of a decree…) or a humorous story (a kicker).
A good newsflash lasts between one and three minutes. The anchor can only broadcast 6 to 10 news items so it is important for him or her to choose the most pertinent stories. A newsflash is not the place to bring opinion or offer analysis. It must only convey facts about an issue.
It is also important to note that a newsflash is only copy and not audio. It is therefore crucial that the anchor can tell the stories as quickly and as accurately as possible.
In order to do this it is essential that the anchor reads the newsflash in a clear, concise and compelling manner. It is also important to avoid repetition of the same stories that will be developed at greater length during the midday or evening news bulletin. The newsflash should always cite its sources and if appropriate use quotes from experts or witnesses to add credibility.
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