Online journalism refers to the practice of reporting, writing, and disseminating news

and information through digital platforms, primarily the internet. It involves using
various online mediums such as news websites, blogs, social media, podcasts, and
multimedia content to deliver news stories, articles, features, and investigative reports to
online audiences.

Here are some journalistic skills required for writing online, along with examples:

1. Writing and storytelling: Online journalists need strong writing skills to create engaging
and concise content. They must convey information in a way that captures readers'
attention amidst the distractions of the online environment. For example, an online
journalist writing a news article about a recent technological innovation should focus on
explaining the benefits and impact of the innovation in a clear and compelling manner.
2. Digital literacy: Online journalists should be proficient in digital tools and technologies.
They need to be familiar with content management systems (CMS) to publish and
format their articles on news websites. They should also understand how to optimize
content for search engines (SEO) to increase visibility. For instance, an online journalist
might use relevant keywords and metadata to ensure their article ranks higher in search
engine results.
3. Research and fact-checking: Online journalists must be skilled in conducting thorough
research to gather accurate information from various sources. They should verify the
credibility of sources and cross-reference information to ensure its accuracy. For
example, an online journalist writing an investigative report on a controversial political
issue would need to gather evidence from multiple sources and ensure the information
presented is reliable and factual.
4. Adaptability and versatility: Online journalists should be adaptable to the ever-changing
digital landscape. They need to keep up with emerging trends, platforms, and audience
preferences. For instance, an online journalist might write an in-depth feature article on
a current environmental crisis, then adapt the same story into a video format with visual
graphics and interviews to engage a broader online audience.
5. Audience engagement and interactivity: Online journalists must actively engage with
their audience and foster a sense of community. They can respond to comments,
questions, and feedback from readers on social media platforms or in the comment
sections of their articles. For example, an online journalist reporting on a breaking news
story might interact with readers on Twitter, answer their questions, and provide
additional updates in real-time.
6. Ethical considerations: Ethical standards are essential in online journalism as in
traditional journalism. Journalists must maintain accuracy, fairness, and transparency.
They should be cautious of potential biases and conflicts of interest. For example, an
 online journalist writing an opinion piece on a controversial topic should clearly disclose
any personal or financial affiliations that may influence their perspective.
7. Newsroom collaboration and multitasking: Online journalists often work in fast-paced
newsrooms, requiring effective collaboration and multitasking skills. They may
collaborate with editors, designers, photographers, and developers to produce
multimedia stories. For instance, an online journalist working on an investigative report
may work closely with a data journalist to analyze and visualize complex datasets,
enhancing the storytelling and impact of the article.

By mastering these skills, online journalists can produce high-quality, engaging, and
reliable content that resonates with online audiences and effectively serves the purpose
of journalism in the digital era.