Asked by Alford

Define scoop in journalism

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Answered by GPT-5 mini
A "scoop" in journalism is an exclusive news story published by one reporter or outlet before others — typically because they obtained unique, original information of clear public interest. It implies both novelty (first to report) and significance (the information matters).

Key points:
- Exclusivity: only that reporter or outlet has the material or confirmation when published.
- News value: the information is timely, surprising, or important (e.g., a major political development, investigative finding, or leaked document).
- Verification: responsible scoops are corroborated and fact-checked before publication.
- Methods: scoops often come from cultivated sources, document requests, data analysis, or investigative reporting.
- Ethics/legal: journalists should avoid fabrication, unlawful means to obtain information, or harm that outweighs public benefit.

Example usage: "The paper landed a scoop when it published the leaked memo revealing the policy change before any other news organization."