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Investigative reporting and beat journalismDevising strategies

Tips for successful investigative reporting (with thanks to Les Zaitz of the Oregonian newspaper)

1. Keep a tidy desk2. Start files: one for story ideas, one for

future access requests3. Plan ahead: projects, datebooking4. Make a daily to-do list5. Make appointments with yourself6. Ask for something every day7. Try for one investigative story every month8. Follow up your own stories9. Pause: listen, read, think10. Pace yourself: it’s a marathon, not a sprint

Things to remember Keep it simple Don't put the cart before the horse Ask yourself and others: How do you

know that? Have a Plan B No such thing as a slow news day