Journalism 101 for Orcas Issues Contributors

Be sure to let people know at the beginning that you’re writing an article for public posting. Double-check that it’s okay to publish contact information, like phone numbers, addresses or emails.

Some quick and easy (if you practice a lifetime) tips on writing for journalists.

• Start with WHO the story’s about – by name

• Then WHAT the person did or wants to do

• WHEN did he/she/they do it

• WHERE did he/she/they do it

• WHY and HOW did they do it

Don’t hesitate to ask basic questions and get background information.

Then branch out into stuff like their history, their favorite part of the story, their worst part of the story.

Ask about challenges met and help received.

Take notice of the surroundings if it’s relevant to the story.

People’s direct quotes make the story lively: be sure to confirm the quote with them.

Remember, as a reporter or contributor, to focus on the subject. Keep your experiences, and perceptions and experiences out of the story, unless YOU are the subject.

Opinions are also welcome for inclusion in Orcas Issues — make sure to identify them as opinions, and, provided they are not derogatory, scandalous or libelous, we will print them after review.

Try to limit articles and opinions to 500 words; you stand a better chance of being read that way.

“The most important skills for a journalist”
By Walt Bogdanich, NY Times assistant editor:

• Learn to listen;
• Write simply and clearly;
• Be fearless when asking questions;
• Don’t take no for an answer;
• Understand that people are not all good or all bad;
• Be accurate;
• Learn to use public records;
• Challenge the conventional wisdom.