News Story Writing — Complete Guide
What is a News Story?
A news story is a short factual report about a recent event or incident. It gives readers important information about what happened, when, where, who was involved and why it is important. In the SEE examination, students are often asked to write a news story based on given clues.
Why Do We Write News Stories?
News stories inform the public about important events in a clear and objective way. Writing a news story develops the ability to organise facts, use correct language and present information in a logical order. It is a common guided writing task in Grade 10 SEE English.
- To report recent events factually
- To inform readers about important incidents
- To practise clear and organised writing
- It is a frequent question in SEE English
Structure of a News Story
- 1Headline: A short and attractive title that summarises the main news.
- 2Lead (Introduction): The first paragraph that answers the main questions – Who, What, When, Where.
- 3Body: Additional details such as how the event happened, why it is important, and statements from people involved.
- 4Conclusion: A short ending that may include future action, official reaction or current situation.
The 5 Ws and 1 H
A good news story usually answers these questions:
- Who – Who was involved?
- What – What happened?
- When – When did it happen?
- Where – Where did it happen?
- Why – Why did it happen? / Why is it important?
- How – How did it happen?
Language Features of a News Story
- Use past tense for reporting past events
- Write in the third person (he, she, they, the students, the police, etc.)
- Be factual and objective – do not give personal opinions
- Use clear and simple language
- Keep sentences short and informative
- Use reported speech when quoting someone
Tips for Writing a News Story (SEE)
- 1Read the given clues carefully and identify the main event.
- 2Write a short and catchy headline.
- 3Start with the most important information in the first paragraph (Lead).
- 4Answer the 5 Ws and 1 H as far as possible.
- 5Add supporting details in the body.
- 6Keep the language formal and factual.
- 7Write in about 80–120 words unless otherwise instructed.
- 8End with a suitable concluding sentence.
- 9Check tense, spelling and clarity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 1Writing a story like a personal narrative instead of a news report.
- 2Giving personal opinions or emotional comments.
- 3Missing important information (date, place, people involved).
- 4Using present tense instead of past tense for past events.
- 5Writing a very long introduction and putting important facts later.
- 6Forgetting a clear headline.
How News Story Writing Appears in SEE
- Write a news story with the help of the given clues.
- Prepare a news report about an event / accident / programme.
- Write a news story in about 100 words.
Model Example
Headline: Inter-School Quiz Competition Held An inter-school quiz competition was organised at Shree Secondary School, Kathmandu on 12th August 2026. Twelve schools from the valley participated in the event. The competition was jointly organised by the school’s Literary Club and the District Education Office. Students from Classes 9 and 10 took part in three rounds of questions covering general knowledge, science and current affairs. Shree Janata Secondary School, Lalitpur was declared the winner. The Principal of the host school distributed prizes and certificates to the winners and participants. The programme was highly appreciated by teachers and students.
Quick Revision
- Headline + Lead + Body + Conclusion
- Answer Who, What, When, Where, Why, How
- Use past tense and third person
- Be factual and objective
- Put the most important information first
- Write clearly and concisely (about 80–120 words)
News Story Writing — Practice
Study the clues carefully. Write your own news story first. Then compare it with the model answer.
Example 1
Clues: School annual function – 15th August 2026 – cultural programmes – prize distribution – Chief Guest: District Education Officer – large number of parents present Model News Story: School Annual Function Organised The annual function of Green Valley Secondary School, Bhaktapur was organised on 15th August 2026 with great enthusiasm. The programme included various cultural dances, songs and short dramas performed by the students. The District Education Officer attended the function as the Chief Guest. He distributed prizes and certificates to the outstanding students. A large number of parents and guardians were present on the occasion. The Principal thanked everyone for their support and the programme concluded successfully.
Example 2
Clues: Road accident – Ring Road, Kathmandu – 10th August – motorcycle and car collision – two people injured – rushed to hospital – police investigation ongoing Model News Story: Two Injured in Road Accident Two people were injured in a road accident that occurred on the Ring Road in Kathmandu on 10th August 2026. According to police, a motorcycle collided with a car near the Kalanki area in the afternoon. Both the motorcycle rider and the pillion rider sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. Their condition is reported to be stable. Police have taken control of the vehicles and an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the accident.
Example 3
Clues: Blood donation programme – Shree Secondary School – 18th August – Nepal Red Cross Society – 65 people donated blood – students and teachers participated – successful event Model News Story: Blood Donation Programme Held at School A blood donation programme was organised at Shree Secondary School, Kathmandu on 18th August 2026 in coordination with the Nepal Red Cross Society. Students of Classes 11 and 12, teachers and local residents participated in the programme. A total of 65 people donated blood during the event. The school administration and health club coordinators managed the programme smoothly. Officials from the Red Cross Society thanked the participants and described the event as successful.
Example 4
Clues: Heavy rainfall – floods in several districts – 8th August – houses and farmland damaged – rescue teams mobilised – government provides relief materials Model News Story: Floods Affect Several Districts After Heavy Rainfall Heavy rainfall on 8th August 2026 caused floods in several districts of the country. Many houses and farmlands were damaged, and some families were displaced. Security personnel and local rescue teams were immediately mobilised to help the affected people. The government has started distributing relief materials including food, tarpaulins and medicines. Local authorities have urged people living in flood-prone areas to remain cautious.
Example 5
Clues: Inter-school football tournament – concluded on 20th August – 16 schools participated – final match between School A and School B – School A won 2-1 – trophies and medals distributed Model News Story: Inter-School Football Tournament Concludes The inter-school football tournament organised by the District Sports Committee concluded on 20th August 2026. Sixteen schools from the district had participated in the week-long event. In the final match, School A defeated School B by 2 goals to 1. The Chief Guest distributed trophies, medals and certificates to the winning and runner-up teams. Players and coaches of both teams were praised for their excellent performance. The organisers thanked all the participating schools for making the tournament a success.