A news bulletin is a short summary of important events which is broadcast on radio or television. It is usually read by a professional newsreader who will be well practiced and rehearsed. A good newsreader will be able to keep the bulletin moving and interesting by not rushing, using simple language and by marking pauses in the script. Using sound bites will also increase the credibility of the bulletin and break up the monotony of a long bulletin.
When planning a bulletin it is usual to give the most important stories first. This will encourage listeners to stay tuned. It is also good to include a dramatic story or two which will help to attract attention and prevent listeners tuning out too soon. The headline for this kind of story should be written in a way which will hint at the drama but not give away the whole story – if you tell your audience everything they need to know in the headline then there is no point in listening to the rest of the bulletin.
It is often a good idea to use closing headlines to remind listeners of stories they have heard earlier in the bulletin. These should not be longer than the opening headlines but can serve as a useful reminder to listeners who have tuned in only for the half hour. It is also wise to take more copy of the bulletin into the studio than you need – this will allow you to drop or add stories if necessary.