Angle

Definition

In journalism, an angle refers to a specific perspective or approach taken when reporting a story. It shapes how the information is presented and can significantly influence the audience's perception. A well-defined angle helps distinguish a piece of writing from others covering the same topic, making it crucial for effectively pitching to editors and building a portfolio of investigative work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An effective angle can make a story more engaging and relevant, capturing the interest of both editors and readers.
2. Journalists often brainstorm multiple angles before settling on one that best suits the story’s core message and audience.
3. When pitching a story, clearly articulating the angle helps editors understand its uniqueness and newsworthiness.
4. An angle can be influenced by various factors, including current events, public interest, and the journalist's personal experiences or insights.
5. A strong angle is essential for building a compelling portfolio, showcasing a journalist's ability to tackle diverse subjects with creativity.

Review Questions

• How does defining a strong angle affect the process of pitching stories to editors?
  • Defining a strong angle is crucial when pitching stories to editors because it highlights what makes the story unique and relevant. A clear angle helps editors understand why the story should be told and who it will resonate with, making it easier for them to see its potential impact. When journalists present their ideas with well-defined angles, they demonstrate their creativity and understanding of the audience, increasing their chances of getting approval for their pieces.
• Discuss how selecting different angles for the same story could lead to varying audience perceptions.
  • Selecting different angles for the same story can drastically change how audiences perceive the information. For example, approaching a political event from an investigative angle may highlight corruption, while a human-interest angle might focus on individual stories impacted by the event. These shifts in perspective not only affect reader engagement but also influence public opinion and discourse surrounding the topic. Thus, angles are powerful tools in shaping narratives and guiding audience reactions.
• Evaluate how mastering the concept of angles can enhance a journalist's portfolio and career prospects.
  • Mastering angles can significantly enhance a journalist's portfolio by showcasing their ability to approach stories from diverse perspectives. This skill demonstrates versatility and creativity, which are attractive traits for potential employers. Furthermore, a strong portfolio with varied angles can illustrate a journalist's deep understanding of issues and audience dynamics, setting them apart in competitive job markets. Ultimately, being proficient in crafting compelling angles not only enriches storytelling but also opens up more opportunities for career advancement.

Related terms

Lead:

The opening sentence or paragraph of a news story that captures the essence of the story and hooks the reader's attention.

Narrative Structure: The organization of a story that determines how information is presented, including the order and relationship between events and characters.

Target Audience: The specific group of readers or viewers that a piece of journalism is aimed at, influencing the choice of angle and tone.