What makes a story newsworthy?

Journalists and editors use a set of criteria to help them decide what is newsworthy—information, topics, or events that are interesting enough to report to the public. A subject is often considered newsworthy only if it meets at least two of the following criteria:

  • Timing: Is the story providing brand new information? Is it current?
  • Proximity: Is the story local?
  • Uniqueness: Is the information distinct or unusual?
  • Significance: Are many people affected? Does the information concern people personally?
  • Timeliness: Is the material being released at a conference or some other event?
  • Permanence: Is it timeless or enduring (topics such as adolescent pregnancy)?
  • Prominence: Is the event or person well known?
  • Context: Does your story relate to bigger issues, such as national health priorities?
  • Human interest: Does the material inspire human interest, sympathy, or humor?

October 8th, 2013