Editorial Writers and the Research Process

Abstract

A national survey of editorial writers shows that, across three circulation categories, there are differences in the research process, availability and use of resources and how writers rate usefulness of sources. Research problems for all groups centered on the in-house library and lack of sufficient time to research and write. Most editorial writers make wide use of news makers, local leaders and attendance at meetings for ideas and background material. Some writers disagree about how much research is needed to make editorials effective.