A news flash interrupts regular radio or TV programming to share the latest headlines. It is different from a bulletin, which is longer and offers developed stories on current events. A good news flash starts with a headline that accurately and enticingly reflects the story. The lead fleshes out the headline, giving important details and citing sources. The nut graph ties the facts introduced in the lead to a bigger picture and explains why they matter to your audience. If possible, include a quote from an expert or witness to add credibility and perspective. The nut graph can also contain extra information, like statistics and background on the topic.

A good newsflash is short — usually no more than three minutes — so it has to skate over many details and only major stories belong in it. It is important to get to the point and not waste time on unnecessary details or bringing an analysis. It is also important to keep the tone of the newsflash light and uplifting, so it entices listeners to stay tuned in.

Newsflashes are usually in first or second person, but it is best not to jar readers by switching between these two personas in the same article. The narrator should always refer to the subject as “he” or “she,” and never use their full name. In captions, it is better to use the person’s initials on first reference and their last name on subsequent references.