A news flash is a brief piece of breaking news that interrupts radio or TV broadcasts to give listeners or viewers the latest headlines. It is a short segment that usually lasts between one and three minutes. Unlike the bulletin, which focuses on in-depth reporting and detailed analysis, a news flash is concerned only with conveying factual information to its audience.
Like an op-ed or essay, a news flash starts with a compelling lead paragraph that sets the scene and draws readers in. It should use a narrative hook or anecdote to encapsulate the main subject in a creative way and entice readers to keep listening. The first sentence should also mention any additional details that need to be conveyed and cite the source. Finally, the last sentence should include a forward-looking element that shows how the topic will continue to be relevant in the future.
The rest of the news flash should follow the inverted pyramid style by introducing the most important facts at the top and then adding more detail below that. This ensures that readers understand what is happening and why it is significant without being overwhelmed by information. A good news flash should also include a nut graph, which adds context and ties the facts you introduced in your lead together to show why they are significant.
A well-written news flash will include a forward-looking element that explains how the subject will continue to be relevant in the future, such as a recent scandal or ongoing investigation. This will help listeners to remember your news item and make it more memorable.