In most cases, a work of nonfiction requires some amount of research and interviewing. Whether or not you’re already an expert on your topic, it’s vital that you do all the necessary work to get accurate information.
Even though research is essential, it doesn’t have to consume all of your time—in fact, it shouldn’t. Make sure you leave time to actually write. Take your researching and interviewing seriously, but also enjoy
it. After all, if you’re interested in writing, you’re interested in learning new things and finding answers
to questions.
TACKLING ANY TOPIC
Write what you know? While it seems perfectly sound on one level, living by this mantra can limit and even deter your career. In order to grow as professionals, writers should be taught to write what they
don’t know.
Why take on work in this manner? For one, it builds your repertoire. Second, editors want all-around writers whom they can send on any assignment. Third, it opens doors to other opportunities. If you can research and write about an unfamiliar subject, you bring to the table a fresh perspective. Editors always need new ideas—even new takes on old topics.
Of course, you can’t learn every tiny detail about a subject, or you’ll never stay within your deadline. But you must gain a good working knowledge, concentrate on finding key points, get your facts straight and talk with the right people.
After hours of research and interviewing, you’ll notice when you start to write that your words have a depth, an authority. Suddenly you’ll discover that you’re a legitimate source of information; in short, you’ll have become a kind of expert.

Here’s how to get up to speed on any subject:
• DO A TARGETED INTERNET SEARCH. Study every relevant website you can find. You may have some intense reading to do the night before a big interview, but it’ll be worth it.
• READ ALL ABOUT IT. Read magazines, journals and books related to your subject to pick up the jargon, trends, leads and ideas.
• USE MULTIMEDIA SOURCES. Documentaries and CD-ROMs are fun and quick ways to soak up facts and build a foundation.
• WHEN IN DOUBT, FIND OUT. If you’re not sure of something, ask an expert. Double-checking with an authority is the safest and quickest way to get information, and it’ll save work later.
• LET IT BREATHE. Give yourself time to nail inconsistencies in your story.
While these steps won’t make you a certified expert, they will help you write about even the most foreign of topics. Don’t underestimate yourself: With a little legwork, you can tackle any topic.

Courtesy: Writers' Digest