Which phrase describes news presented in an entertaining style?

• A. Sunshine laws
• B. Soft news
• C. Prior restraint
• D. Public relations

Answer: (B)

Soft news is the phrase for news presented in an entertaining style. It covers human-interest stories, lifestyle pieces, celebrity gossip, and other content designed to engage audiences with a lighter, more narrative feel. This approach prioritizes accessibility and appeal, using engaging storytelling, vivid visuals, and a conversational tone to attract readers or viewers who might not seek out heavy political or policy coverage. It contrasts with hard news, which focuses on important public affairs, policy, and crises with a serious, straightforward presentation.

The other terms don’t describe this presentation style. Sunshine laws refer to open government and access to records, not how news is packaged. Prior restraint means government censorship before publication, which is about legality and control rather than style. Public relations is about shaping messaging for an organization; while it can be entertaining, it isn’t journalism and doesn’t describe the way news is presented.