Unit 4

TOPIC 1: Editing: Definition, Objectives and

Principles
Definition and Objectives

Editing, in fact, is the soul of journalism and is a multifaceted activity, which

involves:

 Deciding the content to be published and deleted

 Giving the structure to the stories and making them presentable
 Shaping it as per the policies and philosophies of the publication

The selection and correction of news is called its editing. Editing is the

correction of grammatical, factual and lingual errors in a copy. It is done according to

the need of the readers and the stylesheet of the organisation. Editing sets the story

on the basis of the space availability and the relevance of the content.

Editing is tailoring news items or a news story to the required shape and size using the right
kind of expressions and symbols. A news item is selected keeping in view its interest to a
large number of readers and its impact on them While editing, the consideration must be on
language, clarity of thought, traditions of journalism, taste of the readers and also the grace of
expression.

The editing process begins in a newspaper with the News Editor or a Chief Sub editor sorting out
the copy to eliminate reports that could not be accommodated and planning the next day’s page.

Principles of Good News Editing

The following are the principles of good news editing:

1. Accuracy: The sub editor should be obsessed with accuracy because one mistake can
destroy the reputation of a newspaper or magazine, and it takes just fraction of a second to
make one. Checking and cross checking names, figures, and verifying facts are of utmost
importance. Always attribute the news to the source so that readers can judge its credibility.
For example: ‘A highly placed Defence Personnel, Finance Ministry Sources’, etc. are
 attributions that help readers to arrive at their own conclusions, while steering clear of
the suspicion that the reporter is giving his own version of the story.
2. Balance and Fairness: Balance and fairness form the foundation of good editing. Balance
is presenting the information in its entirety while fairness is being unbiased. It also means not
providing favourable treatment to any particular individual, organization, institution etc.
3. Brevity: Brevity is telling the readers information in a direct manner without beating
around the bush. It not only saves time and space but also makes the publication credible
in the eyes of its readers.
4. Clarity: Clarity is the ability to think clearly. Clarity comes with vision and planning. If
you know how you want a particular story to be seen by the readers, your vision will
automatically make your thoughts clear which will be strengthened by the planning.
5. Readability: The standard for the average length of a sentence is 18 words and beyond the
same, the readability gets complicated. So, the best way is to write news stories using
simple words, short and simple sentences.
1. Editing Symbols and Proofreading Symbols

EDITING SYMBOLS

 Set of standard symbols

 Allows to indicate changes without using words

Although stories written on PCs are corrected electronically, it is still useful for reporters to
learn the standard copy editing symbols. The following are examples of the symbols that
are used universally whenever written material is corrected by hand.

Many proof-reading symbols are similar to copy editing symbols. But, there is an
important difference in their use. The copy editor uses symbols within the body of story,
making changes at the point in the text at which the error occurs. The proof –reader places all
the symbols in the margin of the proofs, indicating at which point changes are needed in the
story. This is the process of correcting errors after the story is in type. The person
correcting the mistakes need only scan the margins, not read the entire story.

PROOFREADING

Error – free newspapers simply do not exist. Despite the concentrated effort of writers, editors
and proof readers, errors still appear in every issue of every newspaper.

The object of proof reading is to eliminate any errors made during the editing

and typesetting process. Although proof reading and copy editing are similar

in that their chief purpose is to catch errors, the responsibility of the proof –

reader is to see that the proof follows the original copy – that no words,

sentences or paragraphs are jumbled or omitted – and that there are no

 typographical errors. However, proof readers generally correct misspelled

words, incorrect English and other blunders that might have slipped past

reporters and copy editors.

Proof-reading involves the following:

1. Follow copy: after the compositor has composed the matter, a proof of the copy is
taken out, and passed on to the proof reader. The proof reader compares the proof with the
manuscript / original copy, detects the mistakes in the proof copy and marks the corrections. This
is known as ‘follow copy’.
2. Correction of Grammatical mistakes: the proof reader also corrects the mistakes in
spellings, grammar and punctuations etc., if these are lying in the manuscript. He also uses
some prescribed terms to indicate capital letters, italics, paragraphs, divisions etc.
3. Correction of editing mistakes: the proof reader also corrects those mistakes which are
left in the original copy / manuscript due to some lapses on the part of the sub – editor.
Thus, he contributes to the editing work.
4. Correction of factual mistakes: in addition to the above, the proof reader is expected to correct
the factual mistakes as well. This can, however, be done only by a knowledgeable and aware
proof – reader.
2. Electronic Editing

Electronic Editing Computers dominate the newsroom of newspapers these days. Reporters
write their stories on computer terminals and save copies there only. City editors and section
editors use computer networking to call the story up from storage for review and
preliminary editing. Copy editors use them for the final editing and headline writing. The so
called front-end system will vary from newspaper to newspaper, depending on the
particular equipment purchased. However, most computers are quite similar and once a reporter
or copy editor has learned one system, using a different one requires very little adjustment.
Electronic editing saves time and makes archiving easy. Personal computers are considered a
blessing by some copy editors. Others still are not. There is no question that a computer
is more flexible than a typewriter. A copy editor can perform the following functions on
PC:-

1- Delete characters, words, lines and paragraphs as well as move entire blocks of copy within a
single story.

2- Delete the entire story.

3- Add new text at any location in the story being displayed on the computer screen.

4-Instruct the computerized typesetting machine how wide to set the copy and what font size and
typeface to use for a particular story.
 5-Write the headline for the story. A wide range of electronic editing systems are available and
they are being refined and made more sophisticated every year.

The functions that can be performed depend entirely on how sophisticated the equipment
is. Some, for example, have split screen capabilities that allow two stories to be shown
at the same time should a copy editor want to compare or possible combine the stories.

It is important to remember that the computer terminal is the central device for the
system. The codes a reporter and copy editor must learn will vary from newspaper to
newspaper, and the keyboard on the terminal may vary slightly. However, all systems are
essentially the same.

A number of newspapers have named “systems editors” whose responsibility is to know

everything about the particular computer equipment used in the newsroom and the
editorial department. The system editor serves as a trouble shooter for the editorial staff when
glitches develop in the computer system.

TOPIC 2: COPY EDITING FOR

NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES AND
JOURNALS
A copy editor or sub-editor is a bridge between a reporter and the reader.

COPY EDITING FOR NEWSPAPERS:

In a newspaper office, reporters are the ones who file stories. They may be given different
assignments. These may be on politics, economics, parliament, the stock exchange,
sports, courts or markets. The reporter’s job is to write the story as quickly as possible with all
the facts and figures. In their hurry, they may not be in a position to polish the language.

The first job of a subeditor is to see that the report is in good language and there are no
mistakes. There can be spelling mistakes, mistakes in sentence construction, grammar and
factual mistakes. If the sub editor finds a portion of the report ambiguous or incorrect or
doubtful he has to cross check it with the reporter.

Checklist for Newspaper Editing

1. All the facts must be checked, re – checked and verified. They include dates, numbers,
names, titles, place etc.
2. Correct the grammar and language error, if any Check the stylesheet in case of doubt
3. Eliminate any statement that can land you in legal trouble. Make sure the statement is
not offensive to any individual, community, religion or organisation.
4. Ensure that you have the permission to use the available information.
5. Check the structure of the story. Make sure that the phrasing of the story is engaging.

COPY SELECTION: The first and foremost job done in a newspaper is copy selection. The
selection will be made only when the copy editor in charge finds the copy of some worth,
otherwise he can throw the copy in the dustbin.

COPY TASTING: It means weighting a copy and tasting it on its news value.

COPY EDITING FOR MAGAZINES:

A magazine is a periodical with a popular focus, i.e. aimed at the general public, and
containing news, personal narratives, and opinion. A magazine can focus on any topic in
general or the niche subjects like sports, decoration, fashion etc.

A skilled editor can make an average copy a reading pleasure by changing the structure,
language and correcting the grammar of the same. Misspelled word or name, incorrect facts etc.
can lessen the credibility and damage the quality of publication.

Since copy editing is the last line of defence before going to the printers, it is important to correct
all the possible errors at this stage. A magazine editor is responsible to ensure that the
content of the publication is in sync with the editorial vision and suitable for the target
audience.

Editing a magazine article includes proofreading, correcting and rewriting. The cover is the
most important page, as it is the first to be seen by the readers. Thus, the visual as well as
the content appeal of the cover should hook the audience as soon as it is seen. Remember to
proofread all the elements including – volume, issue number, correct spellings, correct date
etc.

Checklist for copy editors:

1. Table of contents: Check if the spacing and numbering is properly done.

2. Articles: Ensure that there is no mistake in the headlines, subheads, pull quotes and photo
captions.
3. Slugs: The slugs are the section titles that categorize each subject. For example – features,
beauty, advice, etc. Make sure that they are mentioned correctly and are placed at the right
spot.
4. Footers: Make sure that all the page numbers that are correctly numbered in proper sequence.
Also, check information like date and month (if there) to be consistent throughout. The content
and writing style for magazine is different.

Journal Editing A journal is a regularly published collection of scholarly articles that focus on
topics specific to a particular academic discipline or profession. The frequency of the same can
be monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or even annually. Journal articles are
typically of substantial length and are research oriented. Articles are written by experts in
their fields and have technical jargons. Journals might also include opinion articles or
editorials.

A prior knowledge is required to understand the language used in journals because they are
focussed at the niche readers in a particular area.

Abstract, conclusion, bibliography, charts, graphs, etc. are included in a journal, but they
rarely contain photographs. A Journal depends enormously on how skillfull its editor
proves to be in shaping, balancing and developing the contents so that people not only
read the journal but also subscribe to it. The editor should at all time exercise firm but
flexible control over what goes into it and how the material is processed and presented to
readers. Revenue of a Journal is generated through subscriptions.

TOPIC 3: Use of Graphics, Cartoons and

Infographics in Print
Graphics journalism is a specialized form of journalism that uses graphics forms to
present information. These forms often use words as well as illustration, so the graphics
journalist must have the ability to write— especially to use words efficiently. Graphics
journalism generally backs up and adds information to other reporting and writing that the
publication has done. Except photographs, there are other kinds of picture which can also tell the
news.

1. Provides a new way of seeing and thinking

The purpose of the information graphics is to provide a new way of understanding

concepts, ideas and data through visual language. Because our brains are wired for pictures,
infographics are understood differently than text alone. Often, a visual promotes a unique
way of thinking about information because we are able to perceive new relationships,
improve our analysis and form different interpretations.

2. The information tells a story

Many effective graphics tell a story, since they are often produced by visual journalists.
It might be an explanation of how a laser printer works or an explanation of how laser
printer works or an explanation of a bat’s wing in flight, but there ‘s a story there.

4. It works on multiple levels

At first glance, it’s good if someone can immediately get the overview, like the most
important trends or a quick comparison. This gives your audience a sense of what the
graphic is about and where to focus. Then viewers can be to analyze the next level, which
involves examining and interacting with the detailed information.
 5. The visual is well-designed

Information is beautiful. An aesthetic info graphics can reflect this beauty by making
good use of color, contrast, balance, movement, white space bad typography.

6. The graphic stands on its own

Although info graphics often accompany an article or a text explanation, isn’t it good when they
can just stand on their own?. And since the eye and brain are compelled to look at a picture first,
it’s important that the info graphic can be at least partially understood without the accompanying
article, if there is one.

Types of graphics

1. MAPS

One of the basic questions which journalists need to answer is where? One of the best ways
to answering this question is by publishing a map. For a foreign news story, there can be a
map showing the location of the country where the news is happening. For a national
story, it can be a map showing whereabouts in the country the town is, where the news
is happening.

The usual rule is that no lettering on a map (or other graphic artwork) as it appears in a
newspaper should be smaller than 9 point.

2. GRAPHS AND CHARTS

When the story depends on comparing sets of figures, it may be easier for the readers to
understand if they are presented in graph or chart form. Once again, it is important to
remember that all lines should be drawn boldly, and that the chart or graph should not be
crowded with too much unnecessary information.

3. DRAWINGS

Sometimes a drawing can illustrate a story more effectively than a photograph can do. A news
story about a dramatic rescue of a child from the side of a cliff, in bad weather, may be
difficult to illustrate with photographs for several reasons. An artist can overcome all those
problems. In the drawing of the cliff, the reader can be taken out into mid air, just out
from the cliff, for the best possible view. in the drawing, all the stages of the rescue,
over two hours, can be shown together, clearly numbered so that the readers can understand the
order in which things happened. Drawings can also be useful in illustrating features. If the
feature can be given to a good artist several days in advance, it may be possible for the
artist to create a drawing which captures the point of the feature in a way which no
photograph can do
 A reporter’s on-site reconstruction of the incident in words may be better understood by the
readers with visual support. Though photographs obviously can serve the purpose in a very
effective way, nothing like translating the events into sequential graphics. An infographist (as an
information graphic artist is popularly known) uses a combination of skills and materials. He
reconstructs a scene in a graphic form. He needs the help of specially-briefed reporters. With the
information provided coupled with his artistic and journalistic skills, a new form of
communication takes shape.

Use of Statistics

 Statics can be made easier through statistical tables. Statics can show in tables it charts, the
elements represent quantities so it’s important the scale and proportions are accurate.
 The use of quantitative graphics in newspaper requires achieving a balance between being
accurate and getting the attention of the reader.
 The statistical representations in newspapers are drawn by graphs designers whose key
technique is fusion- the striking combination of two visual images. This technique often
results in visual personifications, visual and other visual of speech.

Cartoons

The word ‘cartoon’ is derived from the Italian word ‘cartone’ meaning ‘paper’. It is any drawing
published originally in a periodical that makes its own point, with or without a caption.

In newspapers, political cartoons have always been in use. They are also known as
Editorial Cartoons. They are single panels of graphics that are satire of political events.
Cartoons have a non-continuing format and they make an independent statement or
observation on political events or social Policy.

The use of cartoons in Indian newspapers grew after independence. In 1950s most of the article
carried illustrations describing the content of the article. Cartoons in daily newspapers
also appear as critical analysis of political events and social issues during this epoch.
Many prominent cartoonists presented their views and talent in dailies and this
consequently gave journalism a new form expression. Later were integrated in magazines
and newsletters also.

Prominent Indian Cartoonists

1. Harish Chandra Shukla

2. Sudhir Dar:

3. Abu Abraham:

A. Photo caption and Cutline

Photo captions and cutlines are the most read body type in a publication. Of all the news content,
only the titles of stories or headlines have higher readership than captions.

It follows that standards of accuracy, clarity, completeness and good writing are as high for
captions and cutlines than for other type. As with headlines, captions and cutlines must be crisp.

Captions:

Captions are the little “headlines” over the “cutlines” (the words describing the photograph).
Not all photographs carry a caption line.

It is an art by itself, and it comes with experience and aptitude. It is, generally, the job of the
news editor. The picture and its caption are complementary to each other, and is very
essential to mention when and where the picture was taken, and who the persons seen in the
picture are.

Cutlines:

Cutlines (at newspapers and some magazines) are the words (under the caption, if there is one)
describing the photograph or illustration.

Cutlines should explain the picture so that readers are satisfied with their understanding of the
picture. They need not and should not tell what the picture has made obvious. It should supply
vital information that the picture cannot.

Cutlines should be as concise as possible. Unlike headlines (and caption lines), they
should contain all articles and conjunctions, just as do sentences in news stories. News
picture Cutlines should be straightforward and clear.