• Learn the basics about the person you are interviewing, as well as the subject you are writing about, before the interview. That way, you won't waste time asking questions about facts you could find elsewhere.
• Keep a pencil and paper handy, even if you are also taping. You may want to jot down an address, a name spelling, or something similar.
• Prepare a list of questions, but don't be afraid to follow the conversation wherever it leads. Let your subject talk.
• As you wind up the interview ask the person whether he or she wants to tell you anything that you haven't asked about. You may get unexpectedly interesting material this way.
• Ask whether you can get back in touch if you have more questions.
• Remember to say "thank you."
• Review your notes as soon as you can after the interview ends, and fill in any gaps while the conversation is fresh in your memory.
• Type out your notes for ease of reference.
• Use direct quotations judiciously, selecting only the most relevant and memorable.
• Tidy up grammar and rearrange quotations for best effect, but stay true to your interview subject's intent. Be sure to provide appropriate context.
• If the person interviewed is concerned about his or her words appearing in print, offer to read or e-mail the quotations you plan to use—don't send the whole piece.
• Send the people you've interviewed a copy of the finished article or book.
• Keep your notes and tapes on file.

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