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The Universal Journalist - Fifth Edition

The Universal Journalist - Fifth Edition

David Randall

(2016)

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Book Details

Abstract

A new edition of one of the world's leading textbooks on journalism. Translated into more than a dozen languages, David Randall's handbook is an invaluable guide to the 'universals' of good journalistic practice for professional and trainee journalists worldwide.

Randall emphasises that good journalism isn't just about universal objectives: it must also involve the acquisition of a range of skills that will empower journalists to operate in an industry where ownership, technology and information are constantly changing. His acclaimed account challenges old attitudes and rejects cynical, sloppy journalism.

The updated fifth edition ensures its relevance to contemporary readers by addressing issues such as problems of 'de-skilling' in the media and new tools for digital research.
'Easily the best introduction to being a reporter I have come across ... written by a true newsman and his enthusiasm for the task in hand is evident on every page'
Paul Jones, course leader, Press Association Editorial Training
'What I admire about this book is that it is not simply a 'How to' manual, it is also a wise, witty and extremely entertaining read. Anyone who aspires to be a journalist - in any of the media - should read Randall'
Dame Ann Leslie, British Journalism Review
'With lots of handy tips and anecdotes that aptly illustrate the points being made, it is a must-read for all budding student journalists'
Sue Featherstone, principal lecturer in Journalism, Sheffield Hallam University

Table of Contents

Section Title Page Action Price
Cover Cover
Contents v
Acknowledgements vii
Preface viii
1. What Makes a Good Reporter? 1
2. The Limitations of Journalism 19
3. What is News? 31
4. Where Do Good Stories Come From? 44
5. Research 61
6. Handling Sources, Not Them Handling You 76
7. Questioning 87
8. Reporting Numbers and Statistics 108
9. Investigative Reporting 127
10. How to Cover Major Incidents 142
11. Mistakes, Corrections and Hoaxes 156
12. Ethics 169
13. Writing for Newspapers 185
14. Intros 211
15. Construction and Description 227
16. Handling Quotes 244
17. Different Ways to Tell A Story 255
18. Comment, Intentional and Otherwise 262
19. How to Be a Great Reporter 276
Reading for Journalists 282
Index 285