We've got the beat: How to create an area of expertise as a science writer

Science writing is a great place to hone a beat, building expertise in a singular science topic (or two or three). Beat reporters dive deep to offer context, judge whether a new finding is a big deal or a small step, and know who's doing the interesting work. When beat reporters are really good, sources may even tell them about work before it's published. Beat reporting goes beyond staff journalism jobs. Public information officers cover a beat within their organizations and some of the most successful freelance writers have picked a niche and built a flourishing business. In this Q&A session, four beat writers will answer your burning questions on how they dance to the beat.

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