Story selection

Definition

Story selection refers to the process by which editors and journalists choose which stories to cover, based on various factors like newsworthiness, audience interest, and relevance. This selection process is crucial as it shapes public perception and informs audiences about what is deemed important in the world. The choices made during story selection can greatly influence the overall narrative of a publication and reflect its editorial values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Story selection is influenced by the target audience's preferences, ensuring that the content resonates with readers or viewers.
2. Editors often weigh the relevance of a story against competing news items to decide which stories will get more prominence.
3. A strong story pitch can significantly impact the chances of a story being selected for coverage.
4. Diverse perspectives in story selection can enrich the narrative, promoting inclusivity and representing various voices in the community.
5. The digital age has changed story selection dynamics, as immediate feedback from audiences through social media can influence which stories gain traction.

Review Questions

• How do editors determine which stories are considered newsworthy during the story selection process?
  • Editors evaluate newsworthiness by considering criteria such as timeliness, impact, conflict, and human interest. They assess how relevant a story is to their audience and whether it aligns with current events or trends. This assessment helps them prioritize stories that will engage readers while also fulfilling their journalistic duty to inform the public about significant issues.
• In what ways can editorial policy affect story selection in a publication?
  • Editorial policy sets the framework for how stories are chosen and prioritized within a publication. It dictates which topics are considered important and how diverse perspectives are incorporated. A strict editorial policy might limit coverage to specific issues or viewpoints, while a more flexible one could encourage a wider range of stories, reflecting varied community interests and concerns.
• Evaluate the impact of digital media on story selection practices in contemporary journalism.
  • Digital media has transformed story selection by introducing new metrics for gauging audience interest and engagement. Editors now consider real-time feedback from social media platforms, allowing them to quickly identify trending topics and adjust their coverage accordingly. This shift not only accelerates the pace at which stories are selected but also encourages more responsive journalism that can adapt to audience needs, ultimately changing how narratives are constructed and shared.

Related terms

newsworthiness: A set of criteria used to evaluate the importance and relevance of a story, often considering factors like timeliness, impact, conflict, and human interest.

editorial policy: The guidelines that determine how a publication selects and prioritizes stories, influencing its coverage and the type of content produced.

pitching: The act of proposing story ideas to editors, often involving a brief outline of the concept, significance, and potential angles for coverage.