A news flash is a short piece of breaking news that interrupts radio or TV programming to update listeners and viewers about current events. It can be local, national or international in scope and is a way to keep listeners up to date on issues that directly impact their lives. Unlike a bulletin, a news flash does not present opinion or analysis, but instead conveys facts in a compelling manner.
Due to its short length, a newsflash necessarily skates over some details. It’s therefore important to follow the inverted pyramid style when drafting it; conveying the most crucial information at the top of the article, then revealing more detailed info as you go along. It’s also a good idea to incorporate quotes from experts or witnesses to add credibility and perspective.
As with any type of story, a newsflash needs to grab readers and draw them in so that they’re compelled to read or listen to the full article. This is known as the lead and can be achieved by using a narrative hook or anecdote that encapsulates the subject of the newsflash in a creative and interesting manner. It’s also a good idea for the lead to include a nut graph, which fleshes out the headline by tying it into a bigger picture that shows its significance and direction.
A newsflash should also mention any story that will be developed at greater length during the midday or evening news bulletin (as a kind of promo for the station’s work). Finally, it should conclude with practical info – traffic, weather, a summary of a decree etc.