What is meant by the 'central point' of a news story?

• A. The most entertaining aspect
• B. The overall theme and major questions answered
• C. The length of the news article
• D. The intended audience for the news

Answer: (B)

The 'central point' of a news story refers to the overall theme and the major questions that the article aims to address. This concept is crucial in journalism because it helps communicate the primary message or significance of the news being reported. The central point encapsulates the essence of the story, guiding the reader through the key facts and context necessary for understanding the issue at hand.

Identifying the central point aids in structuring the article effectively, ensuring that readers grasp the most critical elements quickly. It also allows the journalist to prioritize information, deciding what details are essential to support this main idea. By focusing on the central point, journalists provide clarity and purpose, allowing the story to resonate with the intended audience while answering pressing questions about the event or topic being covered.