Ask ProPublica Illinois
How Does Journalism Work? Ask Us Questions. We Can Explain.
At ProPublica Illinois, we strive to be transparent about how our journalism gets done. But we can’t predict what you will find useful about it. So, tell us and we'll try to explain. Send any questions to [email protected].
How Do We Verify Anonymous Sources?
Very, very carefully, and only after making sure they merit anonymity.
How to Find Out About Hot Dogs, Puppy Names and Parking Tickets
FOIA is the all-purpose journalism weapon of choice.
When Do Reporters Collaborate, and When Do They Compete?
Increasingly, we work together to produce stronger journalism.
How Do We Prevent Typos and Other Errors From Appearing in Our Stories?
We don’t always, but we sure try. A lot of eyes on a story helps.
Those Questions You’ve Been Asking About Journalism? We Ask Them, Too.
A recap of your questions — and answers from our newsroom — about how journalists do their jobs. P.S. Keep sending them.
Defining the Delicate and Often Difficult Relationship Between Reporters and Sources
Journalists stay in touch with the people who give them information and might even meet them for lunch or a drink. But there are boundaries.
How Do You Identify Fake News?
Solid sources and some healthy skepticism can help.
How Do We Keep Bias Out of Stories?
We stick with the facts, and several editors read every story.
When Is a Story Ready to Publish?
It's a tricky balance: more reporting versus the need to get the story out. And sometimes deadlines come and go.
How Do Young Journalists Get Their Training?
Practice. More practice. And a healthy dose of “error terrors.”
