lede – Command Voice Journalism

You may have come across the five Ws of writing: Who, what, when, where, why (and how). A story is not complete without the five.

In a news story, the five Ws should be at the top of the story, within the lead or at least within the first few paragraphs. Don’t leave readers guessing or you will lose them.

The most important elements of the story – the five Ws – should be written in the beginning (no cliffhangers allowed!). Supporting elements should be written lastly.

Continue reading “How to think like a Journalist: Pyramids” →

Writing

How to think like a Journalist: the Hook

November 12, 2018December 10, 2018 Command Voice Journalism

Ask any fisherman and he will tell you, the way you cast your hook is half the battle in catching fish. According to Bob Puccinelli of the St. Petersburg Times, for fly fishermen, or women for that matter, accuracy is important when casting the line. So is delivering the fly.

The same holds true for reporters and their profession. You have to find the right hook.

Continue reading “How to think like a Journalist: the Hook” →