In the exercise of the journalistic profession, the news that is transmitted must meet clear and objective criteria. It is believed that information is correct when it meets the five W standard. This name comes from English, more specifically from the expression Five W’s. Each of the W’s refers to a question that must be answered in the development of journalistic information: who (who), what (what), where (where), when (when) and why (why). On occasion there is a sixth question, such as (how). Five W’s of Journalism
A rule that serves to assess the quality of news writing
The news reaching us through the means of communication can be described in many ways, since it can be amazing, interesting or even boring. In addition to the subjective assessment of readers or viewers, the most relevant is the accuracy of the information. The five W’s are a guide for the journalist and for those who receive the news.
Each of the questions or W must be answered properly in the news development, otherwise the message transmitted is insufficient. The answers to each question must be clear, objective and unambiguous.
In journalistic jargon, the five W’s are believed to have their corresponding answer in the “intro or lead” of the news. The five questions do not have an established order, as their ordering depends on the writer’s style. In the further development of the news, each W is presented from a more detailed analysis. Five W’s of Journalism
The five W’s are related to writing a news story, but there are other rules that every journalist must follow.
In this profession there are other rules or principles that every journalist should assume. In the first place , respect for the truth (this includes avoiding false or misleading information, check the sources of information and correct the mistakes). Second, information must be disclosed honestly, taking into account the citizen’s right to information .
The journalist must also respect the privacy of minors and be responsible when reporting on more sensitive issues (for example, criminal activities). Five W’s of Journalism
Logically, a news writer cannot infringe on the intellectual property of others (plagiarism is one of the most undignified strategies in the context of the journalistic profession). Likewise, the professional must respect the right to the presumption of innocence and not use undignified methods to obtain information.
When a journalist obtains information informally or through a “closed microphone”, the professional and their source of information enter into a confidentiality pact (this agreement is known as off the record ). Finally, in the information communicated, it is important to avoid vulgar expressions and the use of any term that could be offensive. Five W’s of Journalism
