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Journalists
have often been accused of being "Generalists",
that's because many don't do their homework. Research
is what makes a journalist the master of the subject he is
covering.
Various sources such as newspaper clippings, talking to experts,
reading specialist books and now the internet helps in getting
the basic information. As per the story the Research
also has to be focussed.
Stories should follow the principal of "SIMPLIFY AND
EXAGGERATE". What it means is first get
the focus of your story clear and then cover its various elements.
Proper research helps in getting below the skin of the story
and in cornering your interviewee with points and counter
points. A well researched story drives home the point
one wishes to make through statistics and proofs.
A few steps:
- Based on the story idea think of the various questions
that needs to be answered and the various information you
need to gather.
- Find out the different places from where you could get
the answer. Libraries, Information bureaus, Govt. departments
etc.
- Talk to experts on the subject. These people could
also be used for interviews later. They will also
be able to give you other sources and more experts.
- Get research material, statistics, names etc. Instead
of writing extensive notes, photocopying and highlighting
helps.
- While researching not only should you concentrate on the
story line and questions that get raised but also find out
about the places and things to film.
A comprehensive research would help in having
clarity in your mind about the story. With good
research the story can even be blocked into various segments.
Some organisations have researchers working for the
Reporter, but I believe that the journalist should do
his own research.
Since the credit for a story goes to the Reporter, Researchers
generally are not very motivated.
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Skills
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