The purpose of an investigation is to search for the truth about a matter under review. For example, after a military aircraft crashes, authorities conduct an investigation to determine what happened, how it happened, and whether there were any underlying issues that contributed to the crash. The results of the investigation can then be used to help prevent similar crashes in the future through policy changes, increased training, inspections, and general information/awareness.
Seasoned investigators know that a great investigation report is an opportunity to showcase their thorough work and present the facts in a clear and concise manner. It’s also a critical tool in the event of legal challenges, as it serves as evidence that they followed all appropriate procedures and collected concrete data and evidence to support their conclusions.
Investigation is defined by the OED as “the action of investigating; the making of a search or inquiry; systematic examination; careful and minute research.” This is particularly pertinent when writing an investigative essay, where the importance of details often makes or breaks the case. Think of it like a strand of hair left at a crime scene; the identification, preservation, handling and collection of that single piece of evidence could mean the difference between conviction or acquittal.
To begin, it’s important to identify the type of incident under investigation, along with any known relevant policies and all individuals directly involved. It’s also helpful to provide a brief background and history, such as how the incident was discovered, and a list of all known witnesses and complainants.