This worksheet is an excellent aid as you prepare a "pitch" for a news story you want to cover. It becomes the basis for discussions with your editor about the story idea and how it will be handled.
You must understand your story assignment to report it accurately and thoroughly. This worksheet helps you plan any story you cover to ensure that you touch all the appropriate bases and relate your content to the focus of the story.
As a beginning reporter, you should use this worksheet for all stories until the process becomes automatic for you. Experienced reporters will find it valuable in planning longer stories or projects.
Story Type: ?Feature ?Spot ?Super Spot ?Wrap ?Other Length __________
1) What is my Focus Statement? A person/group is doing something because he/she/ they … (fill in the purpose)
2) Who stands to win/lose in this story? Who are the players?
3) Who do I need to interview?
Side 1 Side 2 Side 3 Expert/Perspective
___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ________________________
___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ________________________
4) What is this story REALLY about? Who stands to win/lose the most? How does it feel to be him/her? How can I open the story with this person?
5) Where should I interview each (every) person. How can I describe this place? What sounds should be recorded for pertinence? What obstacles can I anticipate?
6) What questions should I ask? W5+H = Who, What, When, Where, Why, How
Research the subject and your source and plan so your interview is 20 minutes or less unless the content warrants more and the source agrees.
7. Go. Be ready to change course if you find new information.
Source: Melanie Peeples -- with modifications by Tanya Ott, Victor Yehling