This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
Pitching is an art in itself: you have to convince editors—a ruthless breed—that they should publish your story. In theory, you do know how to write a pitch. In reality, you lack practice and your pitches are getting rejected. But no need to despair. Thanks to TheOpenNotebook, you can browse through a database of successful pitches and learn from the very best science writers.
The pitch database is only one of the endeavours of The Open Notebook. The non-profit organisation also publishes interviews with leading science writers to give an insight on their working process, as well as a wide range of features which look at various aspects of science writing: spotting a good science story, keeping your research organised, finding a good narrative.
The goal of The Open Notebook is to explore the science writers’ entire process when working on a story. It wants to showcase science journalism as a craft. To do so, it takes a very interesting approach: it shows that science writing, just like science, is first and foremost a human enterprise.
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
The Open Notebook is not only a fantastic resource for young and early-career science writers, it is also a great source of motivation.
--
Here is what you need to know about The Open Notebook:
Website URL: http://www.theopennotebook.com/
Facebook: The Open Notebook
The founders: Jeanne Erdmann and Siri Carpenter.
Board of advisers: http://www.theopennotebook.com/board-of-advisers/
Funding: In part by a grant from the National Science Writers Association.
What they do:
Pitch database: Currently contains 70 successful queries to a wide range of publications from various well-known science journalists.
Story-Behind-the-Story interviews: Insight into science journalists’ working process while reporting a particular story.
Topical features: Articles about different elements of science writing to enlighten or help you fine tune your writing process.
Ask TON: Allows you to ask questions about the craft of science journalism. Answers typically from myriad of experienced science writers and editors.
Natural Habitat: Visit science writers in their typical working spaces mostly because it’s fun. Also, unbelievably inspiring.