Broadcast Writing Techniques

Broadcast Writing Techniques and Conventions

• In broadcast news writing, titles usually come before names to maintain clarity and concision.
• Avoid abbreviations unless they are very well-known, such as EFCC, CBN, and UN.
• Instead of direct quotations, use paraphrasing with phrases like "in the words of the speaker" or "used these words".
• Attribution should come before a quotation to provide context.

The Four Cs of Broadcast Writing

• Correctness: Ensure accuracy and truthfulness in reporting.
• Clarity: Use simple and concise language for clear understanding.
• Conciseness: Keep sentences short and to the point due to time constraints.
• Colour: Use vivid and engaging language to capture the listener's attention.

Areas of Emphasis in Broadcast Writing

• Conversational or Casual style: Write for the ear, not the eye, and use a conversational tone.
• Immediacy: Use the present tense to create a sense of urgency and relevance.
• Tight phrasing of sentences: Eliminate unnecessary words and focus on strong nouns and verbs.
• Avoid passive voice and appositional phrases to maintain clarity and flow.

Broadcast Story Structure

• Dramatic unity: A common structure with three parts - climax, cause, and effect.
• Climax: Provides the main point of the story.
• Cause: Explains the circumstances surrounding the event.
• Effect: Gives context and insight into the story's meaning.

Preparing a Broadcast Copy

• Follow specific guidelines for preparing copy, such as typing one story per page and using caps and lowercase.
• Use clear and concise language, and avoid all-caps style for easier reading.
• Consider the visual elements, such as videotape or film, when preparing the copy.

Learn about the techniques and conventions of broadcast writing, including the use of active verbs and short sentences.