Every day, we get bombarded with a tremendous amount of news and information about current affairs from all around the world. Whether through websites, social media, or TV, it has never been this easy to access the news. Think of how many bits of information you have seen on your Instagram feed today. But how much of it can you trust?

What is media literacy? And why is it important?

The ability to spot the different media types and understand the messages they convey is what media literacy is all about. Question everything you watch, listen to or read so that you can make better judgments about the messages you are given. For example, when appearing for a cloze test, questioning everything gives you an upper hand.

From the news that we read online to TV advertisements, media includes how a message gets communicated. We can be informed, educated, entertained, and persuaded through the press. You can learn about the SBI PO exam and start your SBI PO prep. It can influence how we see and think about ourselves and our world.

Having good media literacy can stop us from getting stressed out by the confusing or negative things we see in the media and can help us focus on all the valuable press to learn, connect and relax.

How to improve your media literacy when it comes to news?

1. Take a break from the news

News has a twenty-four-hour cycle, and its output is never-ending. Therefore, it can be overwhelming and exhausting, especially as some media outlets report mostly negative stories to get an emotional reaction.

Clear your mind by turning off the news and doing something you enjoy. For example, challenge yourself to a technology-free hour and go for a walk or read a book. Or, do something that will refresh your mind and body, like shooting some hoops or dancing to your favorite music. Set your one day exam target and try to achieve it.

Whatever you do, remember that it is essential to take a break from the news every once in a while. Taking time out helps you think critically and not be overwhelmed by the information.

2. Question the credibility of the news source

Whether you read the News on Instagram or a website, it is essential to know who is publishing the content. A credible or trustworthy news provider will ensure their reporting is impartial and free of errors.

Learn about a news provider’s mission, values, and reporting approach by checking out their ‘About Us’ section on their website.

3. Find news from a variety of sources

By consuming news stories from various sources, you can gain a balanced view of the news and give you a range of different perspectives on an issue. Advertisers often fund media sites, which means their reporting is driven by how people engage with the content. It causes them to report news stories in specific ways. For example, if an organization funds news sites with particular political views, it can lead to reporting that promotes their way of thinking. Reading a mix of local publications and international news providers can help you develop a well-informed opinion on a story.