What are the classic 'five Ws' that reporters try to answer?
AnswerWho, what, when, where and why
Along with 'how', these questions make sure a news story covers the essential facts.
Society · Facts & stats
News facts & stats
7 fact-checked facts about news and journalism, each with the reason behind it. 5 more are in today's round and join this page after it closes.
The basics
What is 'breaking news'?
AnswerImportant events reported as they are happening
Breaking news covers events still unfolding, so details are often updated as more is confirmed.
Going deeper
The 'inverted pyramid' style of news writing puts what first?
AnswerThe most important facts
Readers get the key facts in the opening lines, and less vital details follow, so stories can be trimmed from the bottom.
Ancient Rome's 'Acta Diurna' were early examples of what?
AnswerPublic news notices
Daily notices posted in public places told Romans about official business and notable events.
What is a news agency, or wire service?
AnswerAn organization that gathers news and supplies it to many outlets
Agencies send reporters worldwide and supply their stories and photos to newspapers, broadcasters and websites.
Expert level
The weekly 'Relation', printed from 1605 and often called the first newspaper, was published in which city?
AnswerStrasbourg
Johann Carolus printed it in a city in the Holy Roman Empire that later became part of France.
What does it mean when news is 'embargoed'?
AnswerJournalists get it early but can't publish until a set time
Embargoes let reporters prepare accurate stories so they can publish the moment the agreed time arrives.
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