Investigation is a process of close scrutiny and research of a subject. It is usually done in legal, corporate or governmental contexts, and may involve interviews, examination of records and documents and analysis of data. An investigation can uncover the truth, determine the causes of an incident, or assess compliance with laws or regulations. It can also serve to resolve disputes and hold individuals or organisations accountable for their actions.
A key part of investigative writing is to always check and double-check your sources. Be skeptical of information that comes from unknown sources, and never take it for granted. Even if you have spoken to someone about a particular incident or detail, make sure that they have not misspoken, and stress-test their memory of the facts.
The best way to start an investigation is often through a leak, which can lead to a number of new interviewees and sources. The GIJN article explains that investigative journalism is “a special type of report which seeks out and reveals information that some people or institutions would rather remain hidden.”
While the process of writing an investigation can be complex, there are some basic rules to adhere to, such as maintaining a balance between brevity and comprehensiveness and ensuring that it addresses a desired audience. In addition, it is important to maintain a healthy skepticism in order to keep your readers and listeners engaged. Finally, don’t be afraid to try something new or push the boundaries of what is expected.
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