A news flash is a short piece of breaking news that keeps listeners updated on topics that affect them. They can be local, national or international and often contain a mix of hard and soft news. A good newsflash starts with a compelling headline that accurately and enticingly conveys what the story is about. It should then follow the inverted pyramid style – most important facts first, with supporting information added later. It should also include a nut graph that adds context to the topic and shows why it matters.
A good newsflash should also use a scene-setter lede to set the scene – for example by using a narrative hook or an anecdote that simultaneously captures readers’ attention and entices them to keep reading or listening. It should also include a quote from an expert or witness to add credibility and perspective.
The lead is the most important part of a news flash because it is your only chance to catch your audience’s attention and draw them in so that they continue to listen or read. It should therefore utilise a narrative hook or anecdote that will encapsulate the subject matter in a creative way – for example, by describing the moment when flames engulfed a bakery and residents were forced to flee. It should then introduce the underlying issue using a straightforward approach if the news item is about something serious or more of a human interest element if it’s a more light-hearted story.