Remember these three words when writing your next story. Who did what? Sue Burzynski Bullard writes a blog on J-talk with writing tips from Al Tompkins. You can also watch a video in the blog where Tompkins talks about how to focus a story.
Uncategorized
Three words focus your story
Figuring out how to focus a story after you’ve done the reporting is tough. I often tell reporters they should keep a post-it note on their computers with the words, “Why should I care?” on it. Reporters need to remember that’s the question readers will want answered as they decide whether or not to spend time with a story. Writing coach Chip Scanlan, of the Poynter Institute, suggests reporters ask three questions: What’s the news, what’s the story and so what? Don Gibb, a former reporter and editor at the London Times, suggests outlining. He also recommends thinking of your story in chunks – that’s especially important online. And Al Tompkins, Poynter’s broadcast and online leader, says tell your story in these three words – who did what – to find the focus. Whether you are telling a story in print, online, or for broadcast, that advice works. Try it and let me know if it helps.
More News
Opinion | Q&A: Antonia Hylton on balancing field reporting with her new role as co-host of MSNBC’s ‘The Weekend: Primetime’
From Pulitzer finalist to co-host: Hylton discusses her new MSNBC role and how she’ll reshape weekend news with fresh perspectives
May 2, 2025
How accurate is ‘Conclave’ in depicting the papal election process? We fact-checked the movie
While the film gets some details right, it takes liberties with the process, including the cardinals’ interactions and rule-breaking
May 2, 2025
Introducing the public media executives selected for 2025 Poynter/CPB fellowship to strengthen editorial leadership
The program will provide 23 fellows with tools to uphold public media journalism’s highest editorial standards and successfully lead their stations
May 1, 2025
What I wish I’d known when I started reporting on mental health
A year ago, I dove into mental health reporting and felt overwhelmed. The systems seemed convoluted — and that’s not just a feeling, it’s fact.
May 1, 2025
Tried and true reporting strategies can energize your investigative journalism
ProPublica's Alexandra Zayas shares techniques in Poynter course that help all reporters have impact
May 1, 2025