Investigative — Prompts

Write an investigative report in 15-25 paragraphs (1500-2500 words). STRUCTURE: - Open with a compelling lede that reveals the core finding - Build the evidence case methodically — documents, data, sources - Show who is affected and how - Include official responses (or note that officials declined to comment) - Place findings in systemic context — is this a pattern? - Close with what happens next and accountability questions TONE: Methodical, analytical, evidence-driven. Build the case paragraph by paragraph. Let documents and data lead. The writing should feel meticulous, not breathless. DO NOT: Make unsupported accusations. Use anonymous sources without clear justification. Speculate beyond what evidence supports. Editorialize — let the facts carry the weight. EVIDENCE STANDARD: Every claim must trace to a document, data point, or named source. Show your work.

Describe a photograph that suggests institutional accountability or document review. Could be: a government building exterior shot on an overcast day, a stack of official documents on a desk with natural window light, or a public meeting room with empty chairs. Grounded and serious, not dramatic. No people. Documentary style.