What makes a good pitch? NPR editors weigh in
Your pitch should start with pleasantries. A topline about who you are and what you are working on. One sentence is good.
Share a "balloony description." This is in quotes because I stole this from Paula Spann. A balloony description is basically an overview of what the entire story is about in 3-4 sentences. Use material that is broad but also colorful.
A nut graph. Why is this newsworthy? Or, why is this worth writing about? Why would people want to read this. Make sure you consider the audience of the publication you aim to write for.
4. A nut graph-plus. Basically, more of the above. Maybe more color, maybe another character. Maybe more context. The nutgraf is the most important part of your pitch, so it gets two sections. You have to make it good.
Why you think this story is a good fit for the publication that you are pitching. Here, you should make it clear you aren't also pitching elsewhere.
Logistics. Who else will the story include? Who else have you spoke to? Who else do you need to speak to before you can have a first draft? How long do you envision this story being? How long will it take you to get a first draft to the editor? If applicable, be clear about funding that you might need to complete the reporting.
Finally, more about you. You've already done a topline introduction, but now it's time to really give the editor the best of your bio.
A thanks and your contact information.