Using research findings to write better stories

This guide published by Panos London looks at how journalists can make better use of current research to write credible and powerful stories.

Examples and case studies show how stories based on development research outcomes can create crucial debate and impact on policies — especially in developing countries.

In addition to story ideas, the guide provides advice on where to find stories and how to approach researchers, including examples of questions to ask to make the best of research findings.

It advises journalists to be critical and elaborates on criteria that can be used to assess the quality of research such as its ethics, objectivity methodology and the experience of the researchers. The guide argues that journalists should also highlight the extent to which the development research agenda meets the needs of local people.

It concludes with a glossary of useful research terms and development indicators.

Link to full guide from Panos