Writing articles is a profitable source of income generation, whether article writing is a full-time or part-time activity or the writer is writing for newspapers, magazines or simply writing for webmasters whishing to complement their websites with new and unique content.

Often, the first question that may arise to potential newcomers to article writing is; ‘What will I write about and where will I find the information to write about?' For many prospective newcomers, this very first question proves to be a hurdle they can not overcome. This article will discuss the methods of gathering information for article writing.

In general there are four main sources whereby information is gathered before an article is written. These four sources are:

1. Experience and knowledge of the writer.
2. Performing physical legwork.
3. Conducting interviews.
4. Information obtained from printed media.

Reporting on an event and interviewing participants to such event at the time the event occurred often are known as First-Hand sources. Compiling reports or articles by utilizing Firs-Hand Sources are often very reliable by nature and these articles or reports are known to be worth more in monetary value, when such reports or articles are sold to other media networks.

By conducting interviews, obtaining information from printed media or conducting other physical legwork after an event occurred are referred to as Second-Hand sources. Generally these articles or reports are considered to be less accurate and therefore, by nature will bear a lower monetary value.

Experience and Knowledge of the writer

Being equipped with personal experience and knowledge is of the utmost benefit to the article. These skills often assist the writer in writing a complete article solely based on these skills. In the majority of instances these skills will add value and credibility to articles written or simply ensure that the information contained in an article are relevant and to the point.

Performing Physical Legwork

Performing physical legwork is an important part of article writing. It might often be required of the writer to gain more knowledge on a specific event, occurrence or subject. This requirement will, in turn, expect of the writer to conduct physical research into such occurrence, event or subject. The writer will compile notes of the findings of the research and use the notes in compiling a trustworthy article or report.

Conducting Interviews

Interviews, in general, are a great resource in article writing. By contacting actual eyewitnesses to an event or obtaining views from experts in a specific area often contributes towards the trustworthiness of an article. Generally, eyewitness statements may increase the value and popularity of an article or report.

Obtaining Information from Printed Sources

There are a number of materials and facilities available for article writers to research various topics. Here are examples of some materials and facilities available for purposes of research:

1. Libraries

Libraries offer writers a large number of books, newspapers, articles, digitally backed up media and much more where research can be conducted into a certain topic. One advantage of using a library is that this method is totally free of charge to use.

2. News Media & Broadcasting Institutions

A number of news media offer journalists and article writers access to the latest breaking news reported on. A number of broadcasting institutions often make available backups of certain media published by them in the form of downloads, podcasts and physical documentation.

Often, this is a paid service, but allows writers to report on topics using the latest information on the market.

3. Internet

The Internet is another source of virtually unlimited information for writers and reporters. By simply using Google.com in order to conduct a search on a topic will avail a number of information sources on the world wide web.

Another great online resource is Wikipedia.org. This is an online encyclopedia maintained, monitored and updated by the general public. While all attempts are made to keep information posted here as accurate as possible, the writer should still through caution to the wind when making use of information obtained from this source.

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