✍️Feature Writing Unit 13 – Investigative Feature Stories

What's an Investigative Feature Story?

• In-depth journalistic piece that uncovers hidden information, wrongdoing, or societal issues
• Requires extensive research, fact-checking, and verification of sources
• Aims to expose truth, promote accountability, and drive change
• Often focuses on topics of public interest (government corruption, environmental issues, social injustice)
• Differs from regular news reporting in its depth, scope, and the time invested in the investigation
• Can be published in various formats (print, online, multimedia)
• Plays a crucial role in upholding the watchdog function of journalism

Picking Your Topic

• Choose a subject that is timely, relevant, and of public interest
• Consider topics that have not been extensively covered or require further investigation
• Look for issues that have a significant impact on society, individuals, or communities
• Identify potential wrongdoing, injustice, or systemic problems that need to be exposed
• Assess the feasibility of the investigation based on available resources, time, and access to information
• Narrow down the focus of the topic to a specific angle or aspect that can be thoroughly investigated
• Ensure the topic aligns with journalistic ethics and the publication's mission

Research Techniques

• Conduct extensive background research to gain a deep understanding of the topic
  • Review existing literature, reports, and previous media coverage
  • Identify key players, organizations, and stakeholders involved
• Utilize public records and databases to gather relevant information
  • Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests
  • Court documents, government reports, and financial records
• Employ data journalism techniques to analyze and interpret large datasets
• Conduct field research and on-the-ground investigations
  • Visit relevant locations, attend events, and observe firsthand
• Collaborate with experts, analysts, and other journalists to share knowledge and resources
• Verify and corroborate information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy

Finding and Vetting Sources

• Identify potential sources who have direct knowledge, experience, or expertise related to the topic
• Cultivate relationships with sources through trust-building and confidentiality
• Assess the credibility and reliability of sources
  • Consider their motives, biases, and potential conflicts of interest
  • Verify their claims through independent fact-checking
• Protect the identity of vulnerable or confidential sources
• Obtain documentation, evidence, and corroborating information to support source accounts
• Conduct thorough interviews with sources
  • Prepare well-researched questions and follow-up queries
  • Employ active listening and critical thinking skills
• Maintain detailed records of source interactions and information gathered

Structuring Your Story

• Develop a clear and compelling narrative arc that engages readers
• Begin with a strong lead that hooks the audience and sets the tone for the story
• Organize information in a logical and coherent manner
  • Use subheadings, sections, or chapters to break down complex topics
  • Employ a non-linear structure when appropriate to enhance storytelling
• Integrate key findings, evidence, and source accounts seamlessly into the narrative
• Use transitional devices to guide readers through the story and maintain flow
• Build tension and suspense by revealing information gradually
• Conclude with a powerful ending that ties together the main themes and leaves a lasting impact

Writing Style and Techniques

• Adopt a clear, concise, and engaging writing style that is accessible to a wide audience
• Use vivid descriptions, sensory details, and immersive storytelling to bring the story to life
• Employ active voice and strong verbs to convey action and urgency
• Incorporate dialogue and quotes from sources to add authenticity and human interest
• Use analogies, metaphors, and other literary devices to explain complex concepts
• Vary sentence structure and length to create rhythm and maintain reader interest
• Avoid jargon, technical terms, or unnecessary details that may confuse or overwhelm readers
• Edit ruthlessly to eliminate redundancy, tighten prose, and enhance clarity

Ethical Considerations

• Adhere to journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, and transparency
• Avoid conflicts of interest and maintain independence from sources and subjects
• Respect the privacy and rights of individuals involved in the story
• Obtain informed consent from sources, especially when dealing with sensitive topics
• Consider the potential harm or consequences of publishing the story
  • Weigh the public interest against individual privacy concerns
  • Assess the impact on vulnerable populations or communities
• Provide a balanced perspective by presenting multiple viewpoints and counterarguments
• Disclose any limitations, uncertainties, or gaps in the investigation
• Take responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of the published work

Fact-Checking and Legal Issues

• Establish a rigorous fact-checking process to verify all information and claims
  • Cross-reference multiple sources and documents
  • Consult with experts to validate technical or specialized information
• Maintain meticulous records of research, interviews, and documentation
• Be prepared to defend the accuracy and fairness of the story if challenged
• Understand and comply with relevant laws and regulations
  • Libel, defamation, and privacy laws
  • Copyright and intellectual property rights
• Consult with legal experts or media lawyers when necessary
• Respond promptly and transparently to any legal challenges or complaints
• Be willing to issue corrections, clarifications, or retractions if errors are identified