# Data Story Brief

Plan a clear narrative around a dataset while preserving methodology, uncertainty, exclusions, caveats, comparisons, and accessible visual evidence.

## Usage note

Complete this brief after obtaining the dataset but before committing to a headline or chart. Keep the untouched source data, cleaning decisions, analysis code or formulas, and export used for publication together. The template helps an editor inspect the story's logic; it does not establish that a dataset is representative, lawful to use, or suitable for every conclusion.

## How to use this template

1. Define the exact analytical question, population, unit, time period, and comparison.
2. Document dataset origin, collection method, license, version, exclusions, and known limitations.
3. Reproduce every publishable figure with recorded filters, formulas, denominators, and rounding.
4. Match each visual and annotation to a specific reader question and accessibility requirement.
5. Review the headline, narrative, chart, and caveats together so none makes a stronger claim than the data supports.

## Blank template

### Story and dataset

- **Working headline:** [Do not finalize until analysis is reviewed]
- **Reader question:** [One answerable question]
- **Dataset owner and source URL:** [Authoritative location]
- **Version and access date:** [Version; YYYY-MM-DD]
- **Unit of observation:** [Row or record meaning]
- **Population and coverage:** [Who or what may be represented]
- **Period:** [Start, end, and relevant time zone]
- **Collection method:** [How records entered the dataset]
- **License or permission:** [Terms governing use]

### Analysis and visual plan

- **Main finding:** [Qualified statement]
- **Comparison basis:** [Baseline, cohort, or period]
- **Calculation:** [Fields, filters, formula, denominator, rounding]
- **Missing-data treatment:** [Method and reason]
- **Planned chart:** [Type and question it answers]
- **Accessible summary:** [Pattern in plain language]
- **Context source:** [Reporting or expertise outside the dataset]
- **Alternative explanation:** [Plausible account to investigate]

### Publication checks

- [ ] The untouched source and working copy are stored separately.
- [ ] Cleaning, joins, and exclusions are documented.
- [ ] A reviewer reproduced headline numbers.
- [ ] Rates include denominators and comparisons include baselines.
- [ ] Chart axes, units, periods, and sources are visible.
- [ ] Color is not the only carrier of meaning.
- [ ] Caveats are placed near the claims they limit.
- [ ] The headline avoids causal or universal language not supported by the design.