Interviewing Quiz

1 Why are interviews one of the most credible sources for a story?

They are easy to conduct The information comes directly from a primary source They take less time than research They are always entertaining

Correct Answer: B - The information comes directly from a primary source

The chapter explains that "Interviews are one of the most credible sources you can get for a story because the information comes directly from a primary source (someone who is directly part of the story or impacted by the story)."

2 What is a primary source?

Someone who read about the story Someone who is directly part of the story or impacted by the story A random person on the street Someone who heard rumors

Correct Answer: B - Someone who is directly part of the story or impacted by the story

A primary source is defined as "someone who is directly part of the story or impacted by the story." This direct connection makes their testimony more credible and valuable for journalism.

3 Why do people trust journalists?

Because they wear professional clothing Because their sources are real people who have something to do with the story Because they use big words Because they write quickly

Correct Answer: B - Because their sources are real people who have something to do with the story

The chapter states, "This is one of the reasons we trust journalists: because their sources are real people who have something to do with the story." Using real, relevant sources builds credibility.

4 Which of the following can interviews deliver?

Only the journalist's opinion Direct quotes, perspectives, and facts of the case Only entertainment value Unverified rumors

Correct Answer: B - Direct quotes, perspectives, and facts of the case

Interviews can deliver: "Direct quotes from people close to the story, Perspectives of people affected by the story, and Facts of the case that aren't yet known." These elements make interviews invaluable for journalism.

5 What should you do before conducting an interview?

Nothing—just show up and start asking questions Research the person and prepare a list of questions Write the article first Only think about what you'll wear

Correct Answer: B - Research the person and prepare a list of questions

The chapter emphasizes, "Before you interview, you should know about the person and be ready to lead them in a conversation. Research on who they are and their expertise are essential." Also, "Preparing a list of questions beforehand is an important part of the process."

6 Why is research on the person's expertise essential before an interview?

So you can argue with them The audience needs to know their background and why they're an expert To make them feel uncomfortable It's not really necessary

Correct Answer: B - The audience needs to know their background and why they're an expert

The chapter states, "Also, the audience needs to know their background and why they're an expert on this." This context helps readers understand why this person's perspective is valuable.

7 What should your prepared questions be designed to do?

Confuse the interviewee Get facts from this person Show off your knowledge Fill up time

Correct Answer: B - Get facts from this person

The chapter explains, "Your questions should be designed to get facts from this person." Questions should serve the purpose of extracting relevant, factual information for your story.

8 What should you remember during an interview?

Stick rigidly to your prepared script no matter what It's a conversation with a real person; be ready for things to change Never deviate from your plan Only you should talk

Correct Answer: B - It's a conversation with a real person; be ready for things to change

The chapter emphasizes, "However, it is still a conversation. Be ready for things to change!" Also, "Remember that you are talking to a real person who has agreed to be a source for your story."

9 What is essential during the interview?

That you listen That you interrupt constantly That you stick to your script no matter what That you finish as quickly as possible

Correct Answer: A - That you listen

The chapter stresses, "However, it is essential that you listen. If you stick too hard to your script, they will not feel like they're in a conversation, and you won't get the best content." Listening allows for deeper, more authentic responses.

10 What should you do when someone says something worth investigating?

Ignore it and move to the next question Ask follow-up questions and try to get at the heart of your story End the interview immediately Change the subject

Correct Answer: B - Ask follow-up questions and try to get at the heart of your story

The chapter advises, "When someone says something worth investigating, make sure you do so. Ask follow-up questions and try to get at the heart of your story." This flexibility and responsiveness can lead to the best journalism.