Document review

Definition

Document review is the process of examining and analyzing documents to gather information, verify facts, and identify potential leads or evidence in investigative reporting. This technique allows journalists to uncover crucial insights that may not be available through interviews or public statements, making it an essential skill for uncovering the truth behind complex stories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Document review can involve a variety of materials including emails, reports, memos, contracts, and other records relevant to a story.
2. Investigative journalists often use document review to uncover hidden patterns, inconsistencies, or evidence that may challenge public narratives.
3. Accessing documents through legal channels like FOIA can enhance the depth and credibility of investigative pieces.
4. Reviewing documents can lead to discovering new angles for a story that may not have been evident through interviews alone.
5. Journalists must be trained to recognize which documents are valuable and how to interpret their contents effectively for their reporting.

Review Questions

• How does document review enhance the credibility of investigative reporting?
  • Document review enhances the credibility of investigative reporting by providing tangible evidence that supports claims made in articles. When journalists analyze documents, they can verify facts and uncover inconsistencies that might not surface through interviews alone. This thorough examination of primary sources adds depth to stories and helps ensure that the information presented is accurate and trustworthy.
• What role do public records play in the document review process for journalists?
  • Public records play a vital role in the document review process as they serve as accessible resources that journalists can utilize to obtain verifiable information. By examining these records, reporters can uncover data about government actions, financial transactions, and other essential details relevant to their investigations. Utilizing public records not only aids in fact-checking but also strengthens journalistic integrity by promoting transparency.
• Evaluate how effective document review can impact the outcome of an investigative report and its implications for public awareness.
  • Effective document review can significantly impact the outcome of an investigative report by revealing critical information that shapes public understanding of an issue. When journalists successfully analyze documents that expose wrongdoing or inefficiency, they can inform citizens and hold those in power accountable. This process not only elevates the quality of journalism but also fosters an informed public that is better equipped to engage with important societal matters.

Related terms

Public Records:

Documents or pieces of information that are not considered confidential and are maintained by government agencies, often accessible to the public.

FOIA (Freedom of Information Act): A law that allows the public to request access to records from any federal agency, promoting transparency and accountability in government.

Source Verification: The process of confirming the credibility and reliability of information and sources used in reporting, ensuring accuracy and truthfulness.