How to Write an Article on an Unfamiliar Topic

As a journalist it would be nice if you were an expert on everything you write about. But no matter what your beat, you're going to be faced with a topic you know nothing about. It may be eviction law, highway construction, professional cricket, the central nervous system or the Boston Bruins. It could be anything, but just because you're faced with an unfamiliar topic, doesn't mean you can't write a great article.

Instructions

Research

1. Research: It's hard to believe but journalists couldn't always go on-line and do research on topics that they needed to know about so take advantage of the Internet. Learn as much as you can about your subject as quickly as you can. And talk to an expert (or two).

2. Interview: Not all of your sources are going to be used for quotes. Interview people in search of knowledge, not just quotations for your article. Remember, talking to sources is how you get your story.

3. Conduct more interviews: Interview more people than you would for a normal story. Don't take anything you hear for granted. Verify everything that you are told.

4. Tell your source upfront that you are not well-versed on your topic. If your source is an expert, he'll be able to explain things on an elementary level for you. Attribute some great quotes to him to spice up your article.

5. Look for trends, terminology or humor that is specific to your topic. Being able to discuss your topic with your sources as if you are up to date on it will make for a better interview and conversation.

6. Cover your bases: In your research, ask questions that you know you won't use in your article. Try to become a short-term expert on your topic. Even if you're 99 percent sure that you won't be using a piece of information in the story find out about it anyway because it will help you understand everything else.