How to Write a Television News Script
Writing a television news script is not the same as writing for a newspaper or magazine. Words must be short and simple, with focus on ideas transmitted quickly. The audience cannot read what is written, so tone and sentence structure is important.
- Keep it short, with one main idea per sentence. Short, concise sentences are more easily understood. Remember that your text is spoken orally. Long, wordy sentences can leave a broadcaster breathless. For this same reason, keep the sentences focused on a single idea or activity. Try to avoid using "and."
- Keep it simple and conversational by using plain language. Avoid long words that all people may not understand. No one wants to consult a dictionary while watching the news. Read your text out loud after you have written it. It must sound easy, not like written words. Remember the audience is hearing the broadcaster, not reading along with him.
- Use an active voice. Sentences written in active voice are usually shorter and more to the point.
- Use a lead-in sentence. A lead-in sentence sets up the next news story. In itself, it is not generally informative but serves as a headline for the next story.
- Use attrition at the beginning of the sentence. Attrition is the source of the information provided, for example, the local school board if the story is about changes in the school calendar.
- Leave out unnecessary details. Print articles can contain more information, but broadcasting stories need to concentrate on the basic facts. Time is always a consideration.