Hi guys,
Just arrived at Constant Content, delighted to see there’s such an active community here.
My problem is that most of my writing tends to be focussed on the field I aspire to someday do full time (Video Games). Given that there isn’t much demand for such content, I’d like to expand into other fields to actually be able to sell a few articles.
Sadly, most of the desired content here is somewhat unfamiliar to me. I’m more than happy to diligently research the subject or topic a client would require, but I’m just unsure what would be the best approach. With Wikipedia just two clicks away, would that simply be lazy? Should I check out some books on the topic? Even still, is it a bad idea to write about something you aren’t already knowledgeable about?
Help would be appreciated (Be nice, I’m new here!)
Research Tips
Moderators: Celeste Stewart, Ed
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Celeste Stewart
- Posts: 3528
- Joined: Sun Jan 08, 2006 5:28 pm
- Location: California
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Re: Research Tips
Hi,
Welcome!
I don't recommend Wikipedia because it's user-generated, so credibility is an issue. Rather, I like to use Google's Advanced Search feature. You can enter .edu, .org, or .gov into the domain filter and your results will be from educational, non-profit, or government sites! This is a good way to find credible sources of information.
A few years ago, I wrote about fossils and my husband asked why I thought I was qualified to write about that topic. I told him that you don't have to be a scientist to interview a scientist or write about science. Curiosity and good research skills will serve you well!
PS, too bad the video game review request is over (or is it? You might check deep down the list).
Welcome!
I don't recommend Wikipedia because it's user-generated, so credibility is an issue. Rather, I like to use Google's Advanced Search feature. You can enter .edu, .org, or .gov into the domain filter and your results will be from educational, non-profit, or government sites! This is a good way to find credible sources of information.
A few years ago, I wrote about fossils and my husband asked why I thought I was qualified to write about that topic. I told him that you don't have to be a scientist to interview a scientist or write about science. Curiosity and good research skills will serve you well!
PS, too bad the video game review request is over (or is it? You might check deep down the list).
Re: Research Tips
You've certainly put my mind at ease.
I'll keep that in mind next time, thanks!
I'll keep that in mind next time, thanks!
Re: Research Tips
And don't forget that hot topics come and go. A few months ago, I had great luck with articles about electronics - HDTV, plasma vs. LCD, MP3 players. A few months from now, electronics articles could be selling well again. With this site, you never know what kind of article a customer will snatch up. So if I were you, I'd write at least a few articles about video games and video gaming systems - it's always worth a shot.