Topic selection
Topics are only restricted to the broad world of science, so choose something that genuinely interests you. Start with a subfield that compels you, such as environment, medicine, or technology, and then narrow toward a specific angle.
The target length is around 800 words, so your subject should be rich enough to sustain analysis without demanding months of background research.
Your idea can be local or international, serious or surprising, focused on a person, an organization, a discovery, or a trend. If you know the field but not the exact topic, ask an editor or an editor in chief for help shaping it. Stories often gain novelty when they explore a facet mainstream coverage has missed.
Research
This is not a history paper or a traditional essay. You do not need an archive-sized source list, but you do need evidence presented in a journalistic way. Useful sources include:
- Other news reporting
- Scientific studies
- Interviews
- Books
- Statistics and official datasets
Interviews
Interviews are especially helpful when you want a unique perspective, and they are often easiest to arrange for local stories. Email is a good first step, but direct interviews, whether online or in person, are the most reliable and authentic method of gathering information.
Never take a quote out of context in a way that alters its meaning. If you need to double-check wording, call and verify it.
Conducting an interview
- Confirm the interviewee’s name, occupation, and spellings.
- Set up both a recording device and direct notes.
- Ask open-ended questions from a prepared list, but stay flexible and follow the conversation where it leads.
- End respectfully and thank the source.
Alternate option
You can use strong quotes from previously published reporting, but you must cite the original piece.
Article structure
General recommendations
Ledes should prioritize the most important facts:
- What happened?
- Why does it matter?
- When did it happen?
- Who was involved?
- Where did it happen?
Consider a narrative lead when storytelling will better serve the piece. Zoom in on a decisive moment and set the scene with intention.
Assert your point early and remain clear throughout. A journalistic structure usually resembles an inverted pyramid: lead with the information that matters most to your audience, then expand.
Do not write in a research-paper pattern where each paragraph alternates between evidence and interpretation mechanically. Group related information together and let the order feel fluid and cohesive.
Avoid ending with a school-essay summary. One effective ending is a quote that reflects a central idea or points toward what comes next.
Headlines
Headlines should capture attention through strong, precise language. Focus on clear wording and evocative verbs.
Images and photography
Writers are encouraged to submit cover images for their articles. This does not require professional equipment. A phone camera is enough if the image tells a story.
Aim for simplicity and truth rather than props or filters.
Leave contact information accessible so readers or sources can reach out. Once your draft is complete, send it to your editor and return to it through revisions.