This is a list of formulas and approaches for explainers. Find out more at brendanmiller.co.uk
Straight news explainer
- There are moments when a big news story has a term or idea that is important but confusing. For example, explaining what the "R number" is during the Covid-19 pandemic, or "how banks work" during the credit crunch of 2009.
- If it is a big story be aware that other news publishers are likely to publish explainers. If you're not the biggest or fastest publisher, think about how you can distinguish yourself.
- There is a danger in over-estimating the demand for straight news explainers amongst audiences. As journalists these topics may seem more important or interesting to us than to audiences. Besides often audiences can google something more quickly than watching an explainer. Think hard about what you're adding by making a video.
Other examples:
Everyday topics that are fun to talk about
- Topics that come up in everyday conversation can be subjects for explainers. "Oh I just watched an explainer about that. Let me send it to you!"
- It's also worth considering Malcolm Gladwell's point that some topics are interesting to learn about but not necessarily easy to talk about.
Other examples:
Helping people express an identity
- Self-expression is one of the main reasons people consume media, and it's the foundation behind sharing content. (I.e. people don't share anything that reflects badly on them.)