News coverage is the broadcasting and distribution of information about current events. It can take the form of a newspaper, magazine, television show or other publication. News can also be delivered through social media or other online sources.
Many people are affected by what they see in the news, especially when it affects them personally or if they share an identity with those featured in the story. This is often referred to as priming and is a powerful factor in how we think about a subject. Studies have shown that people who are exposed to media that promotes organised sceptic views of science or climate change, for example, tend to be more hostile towards scientists and scientific arguments in general, than those who have not been primed with such media.
The frequency of news coverage varies, with some publications publishing daily and others weekly or monthly. Breaking stories may be reported live on the radio or television, while longer features are usually written in advance on dummy pages and then compiled for publication. Depending on the nature of the news, journalists may also interpret or offer opinions and analysis to readers, viewers or listeners, known as commentators or columnists.
Be brief when discussing your ideas with a journalist, and be sure to clearly articulate the merits of your perspective. Avoid digressions, and remember that journalists are often on tight deadlines and do not have time to explore every idea. If a reporter is not convinced, respect that and move on to another idea.