Cue

Definition

A cue is a signal or prompt used in radio to guide the timing and delivery of spoken content or actions during a broadcast. Cues help maintain the flow of a program, ensuring that hosts, reporters, and production staff know when to speak, when to play audio clips, or when to transition between segments. They can be verbal or non-verbal signals that assist in the coordination of various elements within a broadcast.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cues can be given in various forms, such as verbal instructions, visual signals, or sound alerts, depending on the broadcast environment.
2. They play a crucial role in ensuring smooth transitions between segments, especially in live broadcasts where timing is essential.
3. Cues are often written into scripts to indicate when a host should start speaking or when to play a specific audio clip.
4. Understanding cues is vital for on-air talent and production staff to create a polished and professional-sounding broadcast.
5. Effective use of cues can enhance listener engagement by maintaining an energetic and cohesive flow throughout the program.

Review Questions

• How do cues contribute to the overall effectiveness of a radio broadcast?
  • Cues are essential for coordinating the timing and delivery of content in a radio broadcast. They help ensure that hosts know when to speak, audio clips are played at the right moment, and transitions between segments happen smoothly. This coordination keeps the broadcast engaging for listeners and maintains a professional flow that is crucial for effective communication.
• In what ways might a lack of clear cues affect the quality of a radio news program?
  • Without clear cues, a radio news program could suffer from disorganization, leading to awkward pauses, overlapping dialogue, or missed opportunities for soundbites. This lack of structure can confuse listeners and diminish their overall experience. Additionally, it may result in a loss of professionalism, as hosts and production staff may struggle to coordinate their actions effectively.
• Evaluate the role of cues in live radio broadcasting compared to pre-recorded segments. How do they differ in terms of implementation and impact?
  • In live radio broadcasting, cues are even more critical due to the real-time nature of the medium. They must be executed flawlessly to ensure smooth transitions and prevent delays or errors that could disrupt the flow. In contrast, pre-recorded segments allow for more meticulous planning and editing, which can reduce the reliance on immediate cues. However, even in pre-recorded contexts, cues still play an important role in guiding the pacing and structure of the broadcast. Overall, while both live and recorded formats utilize cues for organization, live broadcasts require a higher level of immediate coordination due to their unpredictable nature.

Related terms

Script: A written document that outlines the content, structure, and timing of a radio broadcast, including cues for hosts and producers.

Anchor: The primary presenter of a radio news program who delivers news stories and coordinates the flow of the broadcast.

Soundbite: A short audio clip from an interview or speech that captures key points and is often used in news reports to provide context or emphasis.