While working on my Master of Public Administration in Environmental Policy at the University of Washington, I developed a five-step guide for journalists covering climate policy. By adapting existing empirical frameworks used by public administrators and social scientists, this guide empowers reporters to navigate the complexities of climate action, fostering greater public understanding and accountability. This guide was supported by a National Science Foundation Traineeship fostered through UW's EarthLab and Future Rivers program, with additional support from the Solutions Journalism Network through feedback and publication.