• Capitalize and spell out formal titles such as professor, chancellor, chair when they precede a name.
  Example:
• Lowercase when used elsewhere.
  Example:

Media writers are much like detectives. You start with a clue--a story idea, and step by step add pieces until you have enough information to write your story, coming to a complete plot end.

Why do we do research for our writings?

• Adds credibility.
• Makes us knowledgeable.
• Helps the readers/listeners.
• Prepares you for real jobs.

Getting Started in Research/Observation:
Gather facts to get enough information for your story. You need to have solid, accurate information.

Information sources include:

1. People (interviews)
   • Form a network of local "experts" on various topics
   • One note of warning: don't rely too heavily on anonymous sources. Try to confine a tip from these types of sources from someone you know and trust.
2. Other sources
   Use libraries (NDSU's resources are located at http://www.lib.ndsu.nodak.edu/reference/reference.html), books, magazines, data banks, the Internet, previous stories and many other databases that are listed in your textbook in chapter 9.
3. Observation
   Observation is a key tool in gathering information because not only do you take notes on what is spoken, but you should also take notes on what is seen (what you observe about the speaker and the situation). Using your senses allows you to describe the scene to your readers who weren't there.
   1. Take notes right away because memories quickly fade. Be unobtrusive; people control their behavior when they're being watched.
   2. Observe someone over time--become more aware of what you are seeing/observing as the interview progresses.
   3. Watch nonverbal communication. (We'll discuss this more on Wednesday.)
   4. Be accurate. Keep your feelings in perspective.
   5. Don't use "I saw..."

Applying Research to Writing

1. Choose a topic and provide rationale for your topic
2. Determine your audience
3. Choose the focus of your story
4. Make a list of questions of the information you need
5. Identify obvious sources
6. Conduct searches for additional sources
7. Review those sources for additional leads
8. Refine your questions (narrow the focus of your story)
9. Conduct interviews
10. Evaluate and select appropriate facts from the information gathered (you should have gathered more information than what is needed for a complete story).
11. Write your story using the writing process