A professional who analyzes news and writes column or commentary, based on personal knowledge and experience with subject matter, for publication or broadcast. Responsibilities include:

• Gathers information and develops subject perspective through research, interview, experience, and attendance at functions, such as political conventions, news meetings, sports events, and social activities.
• Analyzes and interprets information to formulate and outline story idea.
• Selects material most pertinent to presentation, organizes material into acceptable media form and format, and writes column or commentary.
• Records commentary or presents commentary live when working in broadcast medium.
• May be required to develop material to fit media time or space requirements.
• May analyze current news items and be designated News Analyst.
• May be designated according to medium worked in as Columnist; Commentator.
• May specialize in particular field, such as sports, fashion, society, or politics.
• May analyze topics chosen by publication or broadcast facility editorial board.
• May enter information into computer to prepare commentaries.