The Ears Hear What the Eyes Can't See

      Writing is the most important aspect of any type of journalism--DUH!  If a journalist cannot clearly get her point across, then she is not doing her job.

       However, broadcast journalism writing is much different from "good" writing.  Broadcast writing is much more conversational, and though many may not believe it, conversational writing isn't always easy.  I find that many MJs try to write much more complex than necessary.  I still even catch myself writing outside of typical "conversational" lingo.

      To improve my writing, I always read my script aloud--the ears catch what the eyes can't see.  This helps me hear exactly what it is I am saying in my script.  If it sounds too wordy or I have difficulty reading it, I know I need to change it.  I do the same thing with MJs.  I have them sit next to me as I read their scripts aloud.  (I think when they read their own scripts, they know exactly the way they want it read, which isn't always how the anchor will read it).  This way, they can hear where I stumble or where the wording doesn't sound good.  Then, I have them correct it over my shoulder or while I'm sitting next to them.  I'll be honest, though, if we are running behind, I'll correct it for them and just double-check that they understand my corrections.

       Lately, the MJs have gotten much better.  Today I was video producer, and therefore I checked every script.  There were very few mistakes.  For the errors that I found, the writer always knew why it needed to be changed.  I am quite proud of Team Monday!