AI prompts for story research, interview preparation, headline writing, and editorial planning.
Never use AI-generated content as reported facts — verify everything independently
Use AI for research frameworks and question lists, not as a source itself
Ask for devil's advocate perspectives to strengthen your reporting
Request source suggestions by type (official, academic, affected community, whistleblower)
Use AI to brainstorm angles but rely on shoe-leather reporting for the actual story
Generate multiple story angles competitors won't think of
Prepare comprehensive interview question sets for any source
Create editorial calendars balancing breaking news and features
Draft FOIA requests and public records requests accurately
Structure complex investigative stories and data journalism pieces
Yes, when used as a research and productivity tool — not as a replacement for reporting. Major outlets use AI for transcription, research assistance, and headline testing. The ethical line: AI should assist journalists, never generate news content presented as reported fact.
AI excels at: analyzing large datasets, identifying patterns, drafting FOIA requests, organizing source networks, and structuring complex narratives. It cannot replace source cultivation, document verification, or the judgment needed to responsibly publish sensitive investigations.
Leading newsrooms use AI for: transcription, translation, data analysis, headline optimization, and distribution. They maintain strict policies: humans verify all facts, AI-generated content is labeled, and editorial judgment remains with trained journalists.
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