Sources

Defining your terms On the record Not for attribution On background On deep background Off the record

Anonymous sources Here's what The Canadian Press Style Guide has to say, in part, about anonymous sources In using them, reporters must be able to demonstrate to supervisors: the information is of genuine public interest it can be verified by at least one other source, even if unnamed the source is known to them there is no possibility that the source is using The Canadian Press for selfish purposes normal standards of fairness and balance are followed if the source is presenting one side of a controversy, the opposing side's views must be sought and presented fairly in the original story

Associated Press policy on anonymous sources Whenever possible, we pursue information on the record. When a source insists on background or off-the-record ground rules, we must adhere to a strict set of guidelines. Under AP's rules, material from anonymous sources may be used only if: —The material is information and not opinion or speculation, and is vital to the news report. —The information is not available except under the conditions of anonymity imposed by the source. —The source is reliable, and in a position to have accurate information. Reporters who intend to use material from anonymous sources must get approval from their news managers. Explain in the story why the source requested anonymity. And, when it's relevant, describe the source's motive for disclosing the information. The story also must provide attribution that establishes the source's credibility. Simply quoting a source is not allowed. Be as descriptive as possible about the source of information. If space is limited, use source as a last resort. Official or similar word will often suffice, including in headlines.

Where can we find sources?

Finding sources sources.com, university guides meetings, conferences Newsletters emails: file them Listservs accidental sources non-competing media whistleblowers

Maintaining sources Check in with them Listen to them Ask their opinion Keep them up to date (but be careful) Keep track of them