Effective interviewing requires preparation with clear questions to get clear answers. Interviewers should ask sources to translate scientific concepts into everyday language and drill down for more explanation if something is not understood. Interviewers also need to understand the source's reason for granting the interview, quote them accurately, double check facts, and maintain a good relationship as the source may be needed again in the future.

1. Effective interviewing
Sharon Schmickle
B4FA Media Fellowships
October-November 2012

2. PREPARE
The work you do in
advance will determine
the value you get from
the interview.

3. Clear questions
=
Clear answers

4. Ask the source to help
you translate the
science into everyday
language.

5. If you don't understand,
say so.
Drill down for more explanation

6. Understand the
source's reason for
granting the interview

7. Never forget: you may
need this source again.
Quote accurately
Double check your
statements of fact