News is information about events that affect people, things or places that would interest readers. This might include stories about wars, disasters, accidents, fires, sports and other things that occur in daily life. It is important that the information in a news story is presented clearly so that readers can understand it, and that any opinions or statements are attributed to the source.
The way in which a news story is written can also influence what is considered to be News. For example, if a newspaper wants to increase its share of online traffic, it may promote stories that are thought to be more likely to be shared on Facebook or other social media sites. This can have a positive or negative effect on the content of a news story, depending on whether the aim is to inform readers or influence their opinion.
Other factors that influence what is considered to be News include whether it involves violence or scandal, is important, local or well-known, and if it is current (i.e. recent). News about famous people is of particular interest to readers, as are stories which involve them falling from power or becoming involved in scandal. Health is a major concern for many people, so news about medical research, hospitals and clinics, diseases, diet and exercise are of interest. Sex is of interest to most societies, but it may be a subject which is difficult to discuss openly.
A number of models have been proposed to explain how and why certain events become news. These include the mirror model, the organisational model and the political model.