Writing narrative nonfiction requires a balance of storytelling and factual accuracy. One of the most important aspects of writing narrative nonfiction is finding and using reliable sources. Here are some tips for finding and using sources when writing narrative nonfiction:
Start with primary sources: Primary sources are the original documents or materials that provide firsthand accounts of the event or subject you're writing about. These might include letters, diaries, photographs, or government documents.
Use reputable secondary sources: Secondary sources are materials that provide analysis or interpretation of primary sources. These might include academic journals, books, or articles. Look for sources that have been peer-reviewed or written by experts in the field.
Check the credibility of your sources: Before using a source, make sure to check its credibility. Look for sources that have been published in reputable publications and that have been written by experts in the field.
Use a variety of sources: To ensure that your narrative is well-rounded and accurate, make sure to use a variety of sources. This might include primary and secondary sources, as well as interviews with experts or people who were directly involved in the event or subject you're writing about.
Cite your sources: Make sure to properly cite all of your sources in the text of your manuscript and in a bibliography or works cited page. This will help to establish your credibility as a writer and ensure that your readers can verify the information you've provided.
Triangulate: Use multiple sources to verify the information you have found. This can help you to ensure that the information is accurate, and it can also help you to identify any bias or inaccuracies in your sources.
In summary, writing narrative nonfiction requires a balance of storytelling and factual accuracy, and finding and using reliable sources is crucial to achieving this balance. By using primary sources, reputable secondary sources, checking the credibility of your sources, using a variety of sources, and properly citing your sources, you can ensure that your narrative is accurate and trustworthy.