An investigation is an inquiry, either formal or informal, that seeks facts to develop a factual record of a matter. It’s often conducted in legal, regulatory, and corporate contexts to investigate incidents or assess compliance with laws or contracts. An investigation may involve interviews, document reviews, and data collection.
When writing an investigation essay, you must present your facts clearly and objectively. Avoid personal opinions and biases, which can skew your report. When in doubt, cross-check details with multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Finally, proofread thoroughly. Woodward recommends reviewing a printed copy of your work, analyzing it for everything from clarity to repetitions. Alternatively, enlist the help of a writing buddy or invest in some training to improve your editing skills.
A well-written Investigation report provides a formal record of the investigation process, supports organizational decisions, and protects against legal risks. A well-structured Investigation report includes an executive summary, preliminary case information, incident description, allegation subject details, investigation details and notes, investigation interviews, evidence documentation, and a conclusion with recommendations. In addition, it should be clear, concise, and organized to allow decision-makers to review and understand the findings of the investigation.