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On the record

Look past the headline. Find the story taking shape.

Western News Analysis helps curious readers make sense of Western public affairs by examining the language, sources and context behind the news.

Person sitting on bench reading newspaper on rainy street in small town with historic buildings

No. 01

The Headline’s First Verb: What It Claims Before You Read On

Headlines

Learn how to read a news headline’s first verb, spot the claim it makes, and separate a reported event from…

Read the analysis7 min read

Analysis by number

5 stories

A close reading does not require suspicion of every headline.
The Headline’s First Verb: What It Claims Before You Read On

Choose your lens

1HeadlinesNotice how headline choices guide attention and define a story.
2SourcesConsider who is speaking, what they can show and what remains outside view.
3FramingExplore how emphasis, comparison and omission shape a reader’s first impression.
4ContextConnect current accounts with the background needed to read them carefully.