Opening paragraph: the most important thing that happened, in two or three sentences.

Second paragraph: who was involved, when and where.

The background

Explain why it happened and what led up to it. Keep paragraphs to three or four sentences.

“The best sentence someone said to you.”

Name, year group or role

Add detail, another voice, or what people disagree about.

Key facts

  • First fact, in one short sentence.
  • Second fact: a date, a number or a place.
  • Third fact: what happens next.

What happens next

Closing paragraph: the next date, decision or way for readers to get involved.

Share this reporting