News is a collection of information about current events and affairs. It is reported in a variety of media, such as newspapers, magazines, radio and television. News can also be found on the Internet and through social networks. It is a central part of democratic society and its survival depends on the free flow of information.
Journalists have a difficult job deciding what is newsworthy and what is not. Even the same event can be reported differently, depending on a number of factors such as: significance, impact, proximity and currency. It is important to remember that a story does not have to be a big international disaster to make the news, a local incident can have just as much impact. In addition, different societies have different priorities. A cow or a pig dying on the farm will attract less interest than a soldier fighting for his country.
Often, the most important stories are placed at the top of the newspaper, above the fold (named because of the crease that forms when it is folded) or at the front of a website. This ensures that they are seen by as many people as possible and increases the likelihood of people sharing them online.
The main purpose of news is to inform and educate its readers. However, it can also serve as a form of entertainment and leisure. This can be through features, lifestyle and cultural coverage as well as crosswords and other pastimes in newspapers, radio and television.