It isn't easy to watch news coverage of wars, killings, or natural disasters. While it is intended to inform, you may find this coverage both confusing and troubling. Here are seven things you can do to be better informed about what's going on in our very complicated world.

1. Always watch the whole story, in case you miss the important explanations at the start or end that put the story in perspective.

2. Watch news that is intended for a national audience. Local stations do a better job with their local news but lack the time and money to give you complete national/international information.

3. Try to watch complete stories, not just a ticker at the bottom of the screen. Incomplete information can be there just to alarm you and keep up their ratings.

4. Always watch with someone else, preferably an adult, so you have someone to ask about the things that confuse or upset you. Talking about it is important.

5. Try to watch two or three different sources, maybe alternating from one day to the next. Different news sources have different biases (ways of showing their own opinions in what they tell you).

6. Never believe a news item you hear from someone in the hall at school who cannot give the exact source of the story. They may have only heard part of it (see #1). The best response to these rumors is, "Gee, I'll look for that on the news tonight."

7. Ask questions - lots of them. Talk with your parents, your teachers, or another adult whom you trust.