📘 Reading Notes:
1. Definition and Purpose
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Reporting: The process of collecting, verifying, and presenting information to the public.
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Writing: The act of crafting clear, engaging, and accurate messages for different platforms (print, broadcast, digital).
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The main goal is to inform the audience truthfully and effectively.
2. Core Skills in Reporting (Click and Read)
a. Information Gathering
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Use interviews, observations, documents, and online sources.
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Ask open-ended, relevant, and clear questions.
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Follow ethical and legal guidelines when collecting data.
b. Verification
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Cross-check facts from multiple sources.
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Avoid spreading rumours or misinformation.
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Apply the principle: “If your mother says she loves you, check it out.”
c. News Judgment
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Understand news values:
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Timeliness
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Proximity
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Impact
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Conflict
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Prominence
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Novelty
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Prioritise stories based on what matters to the audience.
3. Effective Writing Techniques
a. Inverted Pyramid Structure
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Start with the most important info (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How).
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Follow with supporting details and background.
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End with less critical information.
b. Clarity and Simplicity
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Use short sentences and paragraphs.
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Avoid jargon unless it’s explained.
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Be precise and concise.
c. Tone and Objectivity
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Maintain neutrality and avoid bias.
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Attribute all opinions or controversial claims.
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Use AP Style or your local media writing standards.
4. Different Media Formats
a. Print Media
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Use headlines, leads, and body paragraphs.
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Include photos with captions.
b. Broadcast (TV/Radio)
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Write for the ear (spoken clarity).
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Use short, conversational sentences.
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Include natural sound and voiceovers.
c. Digital/Online
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Use SEO-friendly headlines and keywords.
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Integrate multimedia: images, video, links.
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Write scannable content with subheadings and bullet points.
5. Ethics and Responsibility
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Respect privacy, accuracy, and fairness.
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Avoid plagiarism; always cite sources.
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Acknowledge mistakes with corrections or retractions.
6. Common Challenges
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Handling deadlines under pressure.
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Dealing with uncooperative sources.
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Balancing speed with accuracy in breaking news.
7. Practical Tips
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Always carry a notebook or recorder.
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Fact-check everything, even small details.
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Practice rewriting and editing for clarity.
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Study real news articles to learn structure and style.
Suggested Readings:
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“The Elements of Journalism” by Bill Kovach & Tom Rosenstiel
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“News Reporting and Writing” by Melvin Mencher
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Associated Press (AP) Stylebook
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Local journalism codes of ethics (e.g., Tanzania Media Council Code)
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