WHEN writing news stories, forget things such as `superb system', `wonderful experience', and `a nasty cut on the forehead', advises Dilip Awasthi in, The Special Correspondent, from Viva (www.vivagroupindia.com). "Instead choose facts and statements, which will help the reader choose the right adjective." The `handbook for reporters' has racy discussion on the art of interviewing, packaging a story, hi-tech reporting and so on. Among "20 capture readers tricks" are these: Run better photos bigger; run one good profile per day, preferably on an ordinary person; reserve a corner of a page, each day, for one terrific news feature, 300 words or less; on Saturdays, scrap the op-ed page, and replace it with pieces written by readers; run a Q&A interview everyday in a predictable place; commit even more space to peppy or recreational spots; and include one story a day that makes people laugh. Don't forget to read the chapter on `better words and expressions'. Helpful inputs.

Tailpiece

"What's your reaction to India sending the N-plan to Bush?"

"Nuclear!"

ReadingRoom@TheHindu.co.in

D. Murali

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