The document discusses planning alternative story forms before reporting or writing. It provides examples of alternative forms like comparisons, guidance, breaking information down into context, showing trends over time, using maps/diagrams, and forecasting issues. Reporters are encouraged to consider alternative forms like lists, quizzes, tips, profiles, and worksheets to effectively tell stories.

1. Alternative Story Forms
Michael Roberts, The Arizona Republic

4. Idea Report Organize Draft Revise
Plan alternative story
forms before reporting
or writing!

5. Planning questions
Can we show meaningful comparisons?
Pro-con. High-low. Locations. Items. Services.
Can we offer guidance or tips?
Policies. Guidelines. Steps or methods.
Can we break it down to provide more context?
Numbers. History. Circumstances.
Does the trend tell the story?
Progress. Change. Growth. Decline.

6. Planning questions
Can we show what words can’t easily explain?
Maps. Diagrams. Floor plans. Formulas. Objects,
forms, paperwork.
Can we forecast or handicap an issue?
Projections. What to watch. Timelines.
Does the reader need the highlights?
Short summary or important parts of a large body of
information. Profile of a person, organization. Parts of
a complicated issue.

11. Alternative story forms: Guides

17. Alternative forms: Words

18. Alternative forms: Words
Lists Quiz
Do’s & Don’ts Tips
Pros & Cons Formatted profile
Glossary Worksheets
Q&A X Ways, X Reasons

22. Alternative forms: Templates

23. Alternative forms: Templates

24. Alternative forms: Templates

27. Exercise
1. Select story idea
2. Plan alternative
presentation
3. Sketch your plan
on paper to
present