Investigation is the process of gathering and examining evidence to determine the facts about a subject or issue. It can be conducted in legal, corporate, and government contexts. It may include interviews, document review, and analysis. An investigation can help uncover the truth, resolve disputes, and hold individuals and organizations accountable. It can also be used to improve business practices, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with laws or policies.
To conduct an investigation, it is essential to have good sources. This can include newspapers articles, online publications, surveys, and even images or videos. However, it is crucial to check the reliability of these sources. A Wikipedia article or an anonymous Facebook post is not a reliable source for an investigative essay.
It is also important to know how to write a well-researched report. This includes avoiding jargon, acronyms, and long-winded explanations. A simple, clear style is best for conveying information to the reader. In addition, it is vital to stress-test claims and recollections. Often, people will take certain details for granted or will have reasons why they think their recollection is correct.
It is also crucial to follow high ethical standards when conducting an investigation. GIJN regularly tackles this topic in its investigative journalism training programs, as well as its ethical guidelines for journalists.
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