Writing Tips

Add Language to the List of Things COVID-19 Changed

Posted By Pam Blair on May 13, 2021

As COVID-19 spread worldwide and altered life as we knew it, our language also changed. We needed words and phrases to describe things we had never thought about before 2020. To foster consistency in news reporting, The Associated Press released a coronavirus guide this spring.

Pioneer Senior Editor Pam Blair, CCC, shares three key takeaways from The AP Stylebook’s coronavirus guide for communicators navigating pandemic-triggered language changes. Learn when to use coronavirus versus COVID-19, what terms to avoid, how to keep hyphens at bay and other tips for keeping your content easy to understand.

How to Hit Headline Home Runs

Posted By Megan McKoy-Noe on Apr 13, 2021

A headline and subhead (often called the deck) can be the most important words you write. Too often these critical components are an afterthought and can cause you to strike out with readers. That’s why our next webinar focuses on how to write headlines that hit home. 

Pioneer Vice President of Content Leon Espinoza leads a panel discussion on how to write effective headlines at 2pm EST/11am Pacific Friday, April 16.

Discover favorite headlines from our editorial pitch-hitters and learn how to register for the free webinar on our best practices blog. 

What Will Your Story be in 2021?

Posted By Megan McKoy-Noe on Jan 12, 2021

Storytelling, and the platforms we use to share stories with staff and consumers, has never been more important. That’s why in 2021 we are focusing on the power of storytelling. Join us in a storytelling webinar January 19, then talk to peers about your story at our virtual office on January 21.

Four Ways to Crack Writer’s Block

Posted By Pamela Keene on Jun 25, 2020

At some point every writer faces the challenge of coming up with the right words. Here are four tried-and-true ways to crack writer’s block and finish your feature.

How to Listen

Posted By Drew Myron on May 27, 2020

As writers, we need to do three essential things: read a lot, write a lot, and listen well. Freelance writer Drew Myron shares the impact true listening can have on an interview.

Reporting Tips for a Social-Distance World

Posted By Megan McKoy-Noe on May 21, 2020

A freelance writer asked us for phone interview advice last month, so we turned to the experts: the NewsData reporting team. These reporters cover energy and natural gas policy across the Western U.S. and Canada. We hope their insights help strengthen your reporting in a social-distance world!