How to Write Under Tight Deadlines
Writing under a tight deadline can be stressful. It's a necessity for daily newspaper reporting. In other projects, it can be the result of procrastination. Either way, focus and concentration is needed to get the work done on time. It also helps to be organized. Follow these steps to learn how.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Facts about your story
- Access to needed documents
- A peaceful office or work space
Instructions
-
-
1
Write an outline. Know what needs to be included and what can be cut if necessary. Find the facts that you absolutely need.
-
2
If facts are missing, get them. This is the time for the 11th hour phone calls to anyone who might know anything. Sources can be annoyed at last-minute calls. It helps to explain the deadline to them.
-
-
3
Collect all of the facts and notes. Get your information into one pile. If you are covering a last-minute event, you can start your outline before the event is finished, then add a few short lines later.
-
4
Retreat. As soon as you can, go to a place where you can have absolute peace to focus. Don't combine the task with other things, it will just drag it out. The deadline for your story is the first priority.
-
5
Write a draft. Go all the way through and finish your draft so that if the clock runs out, there will still be a story.
-
6
Revise, revise. Do as many revisions as time allows until you are satisfied. If the deadline comes up, send in the latest draft.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
The internet can be a great place to get last-minute information.
Don't get stuck looking for unlisted numbers. Ask your sources if they are "in the book." If not, jot the number down where you can find it later.
