Investigative journalism focuses on uncovering truth and exposing corruption, misconduct, or injustice in our society. It involves in-depth research, rigorous fact-checking, and a strong commitment to ethical reporting.
This specialized form of journalism can expose issues that would otherwise remain concealed, and in doing so it plays an essential role in our democracy, serving as a watchdog on those who wield power.
In order to do so, investigative journalists must identify potential problems, conduct in-depth research, follow leads, interview people both in and out of power, fact-check, and adhere to ethical reporting guidelines. It can take months or even years to complete a major investigation. It is also important to carefully consider the rights and safety of your sources, especially when they are providing confidential information that could put them in danger or expose them to retaliation.
Increasingly, investigations are no longer limited to the pages of print newspapers. Digital storytelling tools allow for immersive and engaging reporting that combines satellite imagery, data visualizations, timelines, hand-drawn graphics, and other digital assets to tell a powerful story. These tools can make stories more engaging for the reader, as well as help to uncover hidden information and highlight trends. They can be used by reporters working on deadline and can help with the arduous process of sifting through massive amounts of data or documents. It is also crucial to be aware of the limits of data analysis and to always double-check the accuracy of your findings, particularly when working with raw or unprocessed data.