How Can a Journalist Make Cover Stories Better?

Learn to Apply Overlapping News Stories

Reno Munz, a well-known TV host and journalist, has decided to offer a class on Zoom to teach aspiring journalists how to write compelling cover stories. In this class, Munz will teach the art of weaving together several different news stories. By linking multiple stories, viewers can get a better understanding of what is going on in the world and how the stories connect.

Munz says that it is imperative to do research before writing a cover story. Before beginning to write, start with the most important stories of the day. Don’t simply choose stories you had to cover that particular day, but research the news that is capturing the attention of viewers.

Next, choose angles that overlap and think about the bigger picture. For example, Munz covered a story on rising gas prices, but then she did further research and discovered that the conflict in the Ukraine was not the only reason for the price increases. She tied in stories on the rising costs of goods. Finally, she discovered a story about companies reporting record profits during the pandemic. All these stories overlapped and she was able to create a comprehensive cover story that resonated with viewers.

Understand Target Audience

Munz says that it is also important to understand your target audience. What do they want to know? What do they care about? Once you know who you are writing for, you can tailor your story to their interests.

Munz's research prior to writing the story on gas prices gave her a better understanding of what viewers really wanted to know. They were not simply interested in how much prices had increased, but why prices were increasing. By taking the time to understand her target audience, Munz was able to write a story that was both informative and engaging.

The Importance of Different Writing Styles

Finally, Munz suggests varying your writing style. Use short, punchy sentences to grab the reader's attention. Use longer, more descriptive sentences to provide more detail. And use quotes from experts to add credibility to your story.

Munz says that writing styles also need to change depending on the story you’re writing. A light and fluffy story doesn’t lend itself to long, descriptive sentences. If a story includes human suffering, don’t use puns or make jokes. Sensitivity is key.

By following these tips, you can write cover stories that are informative, engaging, and memorable.

Reno Munz