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Write for Us!
The Interaction Point is for
you -- everyone at SLAC can submit an article, announcement, story idea or
photo. Items are published on a space-available basis and are subject to
edit.
Submission Guidelines:
Deadline: Second and fourth Tuesdays of each month
Please include the author's name, phone
number, and e-mail address if relevant. Submissions may be sent electronically to tip@slac.stanford.edu
or by SLAC ID mail to TIP, MS 58.
Remember to answer the five journalistic questions in your piece:
- What: What was done?
- Where: Where was it done or will it be done? Please include
building numbers or other location information, especially for events.
- Who: Who did it? Who can readers contact for more information?
- Why: Why did they do it, why is it important, why should I want to read it?
Why should I care?
- When: When did it get done, when is it going to have
impact/ramifications/importance? Timing is key since we want articles to be
as newsworthy and accurate as possible, so let us know if the item should run
in a particular issue and we'll do our best to accommodate your needs.
Always double check facts with the source of information, and be sure
names are spelled correctly.
Additional points to remember:
- Assume your readers have no technical background; explain any terms or
concepts that the general public would not understand.
- Using big words is not the same as writing well. Be clear and concise.
- Avoid jargon wherever possible.
- Use the active voice.
- Include quotes and people's names whenever possible. Make sure to get
permission from those quoted and review their quotes with them for accuracy.
- Quotes should be edited for grammar.
- When giving examples, use everyday objects or events to illustrate
concepts (e.g., "The tank holds the
equivalent of 11 Olympic-sized pools," and, "It takes half a day to walk the
length of the thingamajig.")
- Think visually. Remember the old adage, a picture is worth a thousand words. Whenever
possible, include or suggest a photo or illustration to accompany the article.
Word count: Feature-length articles should be 350-400 words. Announcements
and other short pieces should be 100-150 words.
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