This manual provides a guide to basic methods and techniques of investigative journalism, and it consciously fills a gap in the literature of the profession. The majority of investigative manuals devote a lot of space to the subject of where to find information. They assume that once a reporter finds the information he or she seeks, he or she will be able to compose a viable story.

This manual focuses on the hypothesis-based inquiry approach, which takes the basic assumption that a story is only a hypothesis until verified. The methods and skills applying to every step of the investigative process, from conception to research, writing, quality control and dissemination, have been thoroughly analyzed and are well illustrated by case studies in each chapter.

UNESCO has consistently supported initiatives that promote accountability and professional standards in journalism. Since 2005 the Amman-based ARIJ has been working to improve the quality of investigative reporting and nurture a culture of investigative journalism across the region, among and by Arab media professionals and activists, for the benefit of the Arab public.