Story-Based Inquiry Method 1-2
This course sets out the Story-Based Inquiry (SBI) method, which has been successfully used by thousands of journalists, academics and NGO researchers since its publication by UNESCO in 2009. The method can be used for feature writing or documentary filmmaking as well as reportage. Its language and approach have been integrated into leading journalism organisations and NGOs worldwide.
This is one of our most popular courses at #CIJSummer Conference.
“This method is a must for any investigative journalist. It will give you the tools to organise your material for the better. The manual equips with you a number of skills, but most importantly it structures your investigation. So when it comes to filing your story you are fully prepared and not looking for that quote in the cloud”
“This was the most useful course I have ever attended. Clear, hands-on, and superbly delivered.”
“A brilliant and very insightful course, which I’ve already started putting into practice. ”
Part 1: From Question to Hypothesis
A hypothesis is what you think happened — a provisional story based on available evidence. It enables rapid assessment of the interest and viability of your idea and potential sources before investing your time in further research. Our colleagues at the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists call it a core skill in contemporary investigative projects.
Part 2: Nailing the Timeline
Timelines provide a backbone to your story, allowing you to see not only what happened, but what must have happened between known events, and how the story may end. It allows you to focus on dramatic scenes that deepen the impact of your work. In the process, it creates one possible structure for your narrative.
Parts 3 & 4 will run on Fri June 26.
Luuk Sengers
Mark Lee Hunter
- 25 June 2026 12.00–15.10
Story-Based Inquiry Method 3-4
The Hidden Scenario
by Luuk Sengers and Mark Lee Hunter
The Hidden Scenario focuses on how making a scenario can help you investigate. Part One details the basic principles of constructing a chronology. In Part Two, we move on to the construction of powerful scenes.
The Story Tells the Facts
by Luuk Sengers and Mark Lee Hunter
This book will help you to make your investigative writing better by focusing on writing skills, because they transpose very well into other media. To order, please complete the order form. If you can tell a story in words and capture information in a narrative, the odds of telling a good story in film or radio go up, too.
Story-Based Inquiry
by Mark Lee Hunter
We’re proud that the new, updated second edition of “Story-Based Inquiry: A manual for investigative journalists” is now online. The first edition (UNESCO 2009) became a global standard. This one is better.