Proposed news writing and copy editing guidelines for Enverga University

News writing guidelines

1. Structure: The inverted pyramid

Think of newswriting like an upside-down triangle. The most important information comes first, followed by less critical details. This way, readers get the key points at the beginning.

2. Lead

Do not start chronologically. Begin with the key point. Start with the most interesting or significant detail. Do not simply tell when and where an event happened—share why it matters.

Example:
Instead of, "Faculty members from the College of Engineering (CEng) participated in a two-day industry immersion at Hytec Power Inc. in Quezon City" write, "To introduce the latest advancements and practices in power engineering and related fields, faculty members from the College of Engineering (CEng) participated in a two-day industry immersion at Hytec Power Inc. in Quezon City."

3. Fact vs. opinion and attribution

Stick to the facts. If you need to include an opinion, attribute it to someone. This adds credibility to your story.

Example:
Fact: "Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) and Innovative Training Works, Inc. (IT Works) signed an agreement partnership, allowing MSEUF to become a Certiport Authorized Testing Center. 
Opinion (attributed): "We plan to integrate these certifications into our curriculum, enabling our students to acquire in-demand certified skills even before they graduate. This presents a valuable opportunity for our students," Dean Belleza shared."

4. Identification

Always use full names and titles the first time you mention someone. This helps readers understand who the person is.

Example:
First reference: "Dr. Benilda N. Villenas, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academics and Research of Enverga University, addressed the graduating class."
Later reference: "Dr. Villenas congratulated the students on their achievements."

5. Short paragraphs

Keep paragraphs short. It makes the story easier to read and more engaging. If possible, stick to one sentence, one paragraph.

Example:
Instead of long paragraphs, break it up like this:

"The Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF), the Municipal Government of Sariaya, and Herencia Sariaya signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on heritage conservation projects in Sariaya, Quezon."

"The MOU involves the preservation and restoration of significant historical landmarks in the town, including the Municipal Building and the Sariaya colonial park."

6. Person

Stick to third-person point of view unless you have a good reason not to. Do not switch perspectives suddenly.

Example:
Use: "Enverga University will host the event."
Avoid: "We are hosting the event" unless it's in a direct quote.

7. Headlines

Headlines should be short, punchy, and consistent with the article. For past events, use the present tense. For future events, use future tense.

Examples:
Past event: "MSEUF RPIUC, HRD host webinar on IP rights"
Future event: "Enverga U to host International Conference on Business"

Avoid using articles like "the," "a," or "an" in headlines to keep them concise.

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Copy editing for newswriting

 

1. Unnecessary attribution and quotes

There’s no need to attribute facts that are common knowledge or obvious. Use quotes for opinions, controversial statements, or interesting remarks.

Example:
Instead of quoting, “Enverga University is one of the top schools in the region,” state it as a fact: "Enverga University ranks among the top schools in the region."

2. Quotes should sound conversational

Quotes should be concise and easy to understand. If necessary, adjust quotes for clarity without changing the meaning.

Example:
Instead of: "The privilege of advancing education is one I would be honored to assume."
Edit to: "I'm honored to help advance education."

3. Trim excess verbiage

Keep sentences short and to the point.

Example:
Instead of: "He took a step in the direction of the main gate," write: "He stepped toward the main gate."

4. Use active voice

Active voice is more engaging and direct. Use passive voice only when needed.

Example:
Passive: "The event was organized by the students."
Active: "Students organized the event."

5. Don’t strain for synonyms for ‘said’

Stick to simple verbs like "said," "explained," "stated," or "added." Avoid overusing words like "declared" or "affirmed."

Example:
Instead of: "‘We need change,’ he affirmed," write: "‘We need change,’ he said."

6. Avoid unattributed opinion

If a statement could provoke "Says who?" from readers, attribute it.

Example:
Instead of: "Enverga University has the best programs in the country," write: "According to the latest post of Edurank, Enverga University has some of the best programs in the country."

7. Attribute all quotes

Even if it's obvious who said it, make sure to attribute quotes to the speaker.

Example:
Instead of: "'This is a great opportunity for students,'" write: "'This is a great opportunity for students,' said Dr. Mercado."

8. Keep focus and structure

Your story should have a clear point and flow. If readers can not easily summarize the article’s main point, revise it for clarity.

9. Avoid clichéd endings

Not every story needs to end with a quote. Consider closing with an impactful detail or statistic.

Example:
Instead of ending with, "'This is only the beginning,' she said," you could write: "The initiative is expected to benefit over 5,000 students."

10. Do not switch from third Person to second

Stick to one perspective. Don’t switch between "you" and "he/she" in the middle of the story.

Example:
Avoid: "Enverga will open its doors to you, and students will...," use: "Enverga will open its doors, and students will..."

11. Avoid overuse of adjectives and adverbs

Too many descriptive words can clutter the writing.

Example:
Instead of: "In her small, bright office, she calmly answered," write: "In her office, she answered."

12. Avoid jargon and stuffy language

Use simple, clear words that everyone can understand. Avoid technical terms that could confuse readers, especially when writing for a general audience.

Example:
Instead of:
"The university's new cloud-based ERP system will optimize the IT infrastructure, enhance data virtualization, and streamline the API integration for smoother SaaS operations."

Write:
"The university’s new online system will improve data management and make it easier for departments to work together."

13. Identify people clearly

Include full names and a brief description of who they are.

Example:
Instead of: "Dr. Ayala spoke at the event," write: "Dr. Clayd Ayala, dean of the arts and sciences, spoke at the event."

14. Avoid stating the obvious in captions

Only include relevant details in photo captions.

Example:
Instead of: "Dr. Lagumen and some students are standing in front of the new building," write: "Dr. Reyes stands in front of Enverga University's newly opened CCJC Building as she instruct senior students during their monthly formation."