If you're working in a group, writing a mission statement first is important. It helps you determine the ground rules for your stories. What's acceptable to cover, what's not (a death? a scandel?), and when to put it to a vote. Make sure everyone in your team contributes so that you have a sense of shared ownership over the document.

Using numbers - facts, facts, facts. It can be easy to dispute an opinion, but it's harder to argue with facts. Use them when you can to back up your arguments - but make sure your sources are above reproach!

Interrogate your source - just because you're told it's true, it doesn't make it so. Always question where is your information coming from. Who is providing it? Can they be trusted? What do they have to gain by sharing this information with you?

Write down some questions before you attend any event, and know your background information. You never know who you'll see there, and if you have a couple of good questions ready it could be the making of your article.

Producing a story is one thing, getting it noticed is quite another. Use the points below to guide your story editing.

• Make sure your introduction or opening sequence grabs the attention of your audience.
• If you're writing an article, your opening paragraph should summarize the story.
• Make sure you consider the who, what, when, where, how and why of your story. Examine the story from every angle.
• Consider what the personal element is in your story. Audiences often relate well to stories about peoples lives.
• ALWAYS read over your story once you're done, pass it to a friend or someone you trust to give you honest feedback before you publish!

Thinking about who your audience is, can be one of the most important things you can do. Who are you writing for? Is this a story they will care about? Should care about? Pitching your story to the people that will read it is something to be carefully considered.