Appointing federal judges and U.S. attorneys: An explainer
Because federal judges wield significant power, they are at the core of a president’s legacy. We explain how they are chosen and confirmed.
Tip Sheets
Expert Commentary
Municipal bonds: A reporter’s tip sheet
When your city or state needs cash for infrastructure, it probably issues a municipal bond. We explain how “munis” work.
Expert Commentary
Predict if your FOIA request will succeed
Writing a FOIA can be hard. A new tool from data.world will help you improve your chances of success.
Expert Commentary
Writing about campaign finance: A tip sheet with tools and examples
Running for office in the United States is an expensive affair. Immense sums change hands. This tip sheet will help journalists find and track the influence of money in politics.
Expert Commentary
Reporting on lobbying: An introduction, tips and examples
Special interests in Washington and capitals around the country buy access to influence deals behind closed doors. They leave journalists a few crumbs to follow, but we need to know where to look.
Expert Commentary
Property Taxes 101: A primer for journalists
This tip sheet offers basic tips and resources for journalists writing about property taxes.
Expert Commentary
Oil prices influence every beat: Resources for reporters
Peel away at almost any story – from unrest in Venezuela to milk deliveries in Vermont – and eventually you’ll find a tale about oil. This explainer includes resources for reporters new to the global oil beat.
Expert Commentary
Flying in America: Reporting on passengers’ rights
Federal laws protect air passengers and direct how airlines must compensate anyone bumped from a flight. This tip sheet helps journalists comb through the fine print.
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Investigating nonprofits and charities: Where to find internal data, public records
How to research nonprofit organizations, with examples of investigations and instructions on finding and reading 990 tax filings.
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How to gauge the quality of a research study: 13 questions journalists should ask
Asking these questions can help journalists gauge the quality of a research study or report and avoid relying on flawed findings.
Expert Commentary