News coverage is the process of sharing information about current events. This can be done through newspapers, television and radio programs, and online articles. News reports can focus on politics, economics, religion, sports, crime and weather. They can also be informative, educational or entertaining. The topic of a news report is typically chosen by a reporter and written according to the reporter’s perspective. The reporter may also rely on sources and experts to add insight to the story.
As technology and social developments have increased the speed at which information can be spread, news reporting has become more widespread. Historically, a newspaper or other publication was the primary method for conveying news. However, recent technological advances have allowed people to carry around and use portable devices capable of transmitting news instantly. Additionally, these technologies have made it more difficult for governments to shut down a newspaper or radio station or to control who speaks publicly about a particular event.
In a time of instant access to news, the amount of stories that get covered can be overwhelming for many people. As a result, some journalists will often repeat or refresh old news stories (such as adding a new photo, fact, quote or minor tidbit) instead of writing something completely new. This can be frustrating for viewers and fans of a news organization.
Other studies have found that news coverage can increase people’s perceptions of a situation – such as the economy – by overstating negative trends. This is a result of a constant stream of negative news skewing people’s outlook.