Journalism Skills for Beginners

A quick look at the skills before we plunge in.

I am not suggesting you jump into a war zone to report. This is a more fundamental truth and one of the secrets to success in reporting.

Cultivate this if you want to be a successful reporter.

Story ideas are like gold. They are vital for your success.

Targeted writing really helps.

The underlying aim of this course is for you to report, write and publish a story - and get paid. But on that path, don't discount the benefits of writing some stories for free.

Is your story idea a workable idea?

No story will succeed in its aim without this.

Maintain focus - but be flexible when needed.

The basic reporting nuts and bolts to include in your story. Make sure you include them all.

A brief overview of the difference between a feature story and a news story.

An introduction to a very useful story template, one that will be explained in more depth later in the course.

You may be passionate about the subject your are reporting on - but don't let this blind you to the need for taking an objective approach.

Make sure you help inform the reader where you are getting your information and quotes from.

This is ground zero - be honest in your reporting and writing.

A full list of the dos and don'ts for journalists.

Only certain types of reporting could be classed as dangerous. But it is useful to be aware of the need for commonsense precautions.

It is best to be prepared when you go out to report.

Some key resources for those planning to report on conflicts.

Doing your homework beforehand pays dividends.

Know when to stop preparation and planning and get out into the field.

Most people are experts in something. Maybe you can leverage your expertise.

Digital recorders are great. But note taking matters.

Using a pen and note pad is the core to reporting.

You will find out it takes some practice to get good at note taking. Stick at it.

If you are going to get serious about taking up reporting, it's worth learning shorthand. But you don't need it to complete this course and get a story published.

The dos and don'ts of using a digital recorder.

Always be careful that you are well prepared when you go out to report.

This is the core of reporting - and it is the most enjoyable or gratifying part.

Meet your interviewees face to face and add the voices of people into your story.

Variety is the spice of life - and it helps spice up your story.

This is a secret crucially important to successful storytelling.

Make sure you cover what needs to be covered.

Know when to stop reporting.

Good interviewing is an art - but it can be learned.

There are a range of situations in which you can interview or get comments from people.

Take care with preparing your questions.

Make sure to include the right questions to get the right information.

Don't lead your interviewee on.

Be alert to asking follow-up questions when appropriate.

You won't believe this - even some of the best journalists fall short here.

Treat your interviewee professionally and with courtesy, whoever they are.

Even if you have to ask hard questions - lighten it up at the end.

An overview of the interviewing process.