What are the Different Types of News?
News is defined as “newly received or noteworthy information, especially about recent events”. It is information that is broadcasted, printed, or shared online in order to inform the public. There are various types of news, each intended to meet different needs and interests.
Hard News
Hard news refers to factual, straight news stories that focus primarily on the “who, what, why, when, and where” of an event. They are written in a concise and factual manner, often with an emphasis on the importance of the story and an unbiased approach. Examples of hard news include political stories, natural disasters, or a major trial. This type of news is generally written in the inverted pyramid style and includes quotes and on-the-scene reporting.
Soft News
Soft news is a type of news that is written for entertainment or conversation purposes. It focuses on lighter topics, such as celebrities, lifestyle trends, and human interest stories. This type of news has a slant that makes it more interesting to a general audience while still providing factual information. Soft news stories are often used to draw readers into an issue, as they tend to be more personal and relatable. For example, a soft news story may be written about how a celebrity is making a difference in their community.
Opinion News
Opinion news is also known as interpretative news, and it is used to provide an opinion or analysis of an event or issue. This type of news often incorporates facts to support a point of view, rather than simply reporting the facts of a story. Opinion news is seen in newspapers and online in the form of columns, reviews, or editorials. It is written to provide the public with an opinion from an expert on a given topic.
News Analysis
News analysis is a type of news that dissects and examines a particular event or story. It provides an analysis of the facts, examines any underlying questions the story raises, and explains how the story fits into a larger context. This type of news typically comes from an expert or professional who has the experience and knowledge necessary to provide an in-depth analysis. News analysis is more detailed than opinion news and can be used to inform the public on highly complex topics.
Breaking News
Breaking news is a type of news that often requires immediate coverage, allowing journalists to report it as soon as it occurs. It is typically reserved for major stories that are unfolding or have just occurred, such as disasters or political changes. This type of news is typically written quickly and may include quotes or on-the-scene reporting. Breaking news stories are often initially reported through news outlets’ websites or in short televised or radio segments. They are later expanded or developed as new information becomes available.