Background research

Definition

Background research involves gathering existing information and context related to a particular subject or topic, often prior to conducting primary research or writing. This process helps journalists and writers understand the historical, cultural, and situational factors that inform their stories, ensuring depth and accuracy in feature writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Background research helps writers identify key themes and narratives that can shape their feature stories effectively.
2. It is essential for understanding the perspectives of different stakeholders involved in the story, ensuring a balanced representation.
3. Conducting thorough background research can reveal previously overlooked details that enrich the narrative and provide depth to the writing.
4. Writers often utilize academic journals, articles, interviews, and reliable online resources to conduct background research.
5. A well-researched feature can significantly enhance the credibility and impact of the story, making it more engaging for readers.

Review Questions

• How does background research enhance the quality of feature writing?
  • Background research enhances feature writing by providing essential context, allowing writers to understand the nuances of the story they are telling. This groundwork helps identify key themes, perspectives, and historical context that inform the narrative. By doing this research upfront, writers can craft a more engaging and informative piece that resonates with readers and accurately represents the subjects involved.
• In what ways can ineffective background research impact the outcome of a feature story?
  • Ineffective background research can lead to incomplete or misleading narratives in a feature story. When writers fail to gather sufficient context or overlook critical perspectives, their work may lack depth and accuracy, resulting in potential misrepresentation of subjects or issues. This can diminish the overall credibility of the piece and alienate readers who seek well-rounded insights into complex topics.
• Evaluate the role of background research in investigative journalism and its importance in uncovering hidden truths.
  • In investigative journalism, background research is crucial for uncovering hidden truths and exposing issues of public concern. It allows journalists to build a comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand, identify patterns, and connect various pieces of evidence. By grounding their investigations in solid background research, journalists enhance their ability to challenge narratives, provide factual analysis, and ultimately contribute to informed public discourse.

Related terms

Contextualization: The process of placing information within a broader framework to enhance understanding and significance.

Source Evaluation: The assessment of the credibility, reliability, and relevance of sources used in research.

Investigative Journalism: A form of journalism that seeks to uncover hidden information and provide comprehensive insights into issues of public interest.