Investigative journalism exposes truth and holds those in positions of power accountable. It is the hallmark of topflight media and a tradition that dates back to Upton Sinclair’s exposé The Jungle on Chicago meatpacking plants and Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein’s Watergate investigation that brought down US president Richard Nixon.
The work involves digging up information that is hidden or difficult to get access to. The process is often complex and time-consuming and can require a large number of sources. It also requires the skills to find and interpret data. It is crucial to have legal advice at every stage and to ensure that all facts are correct and verifiable. Whenever possible, people who are involved in the investigation should be allowed to comment on what is happening or their side of the story. This may reveal more valuable information.
It is important to make sure that the facts are presented in a way that makes sense to readers. This can involve visuals and interactive elements as well as text. As an investigative journalist, you should be able to see how all the different parts of your investigation fit together. It is like a jigsaw puzzle in that you have a jumble of pieces and only slowly do they begin to form the picture.
Getting started with this type of journalism requires a strong commitment to uncovering the truth and being brave enough to stand up against those in positions of power. It’s a rewarding career that can have a major impact on the lives of others.