ABSTRACT
Writing the story can be the most difficult part of the investigative process. Publication never seems so far off as when journalist sit down to write the story. For complicated stories, reporters work through many versions before they feel it is good enough to go to print. Try to write a story that has as few holes as possible. Present the problem and provide enough information so the reader gets it. From journalist's notes pull everything journalist think the reader should know. Don't worry about length or the perfect lead or kicker. Toss everything to the screen one section at a time, according to journalist's outline. The central question is this: What does journalist's reader need to know? Add basic information readers will need to understand what journalist tell them. Approach the story from the reader's know-nothing perspective. The Missouri Group is a team of professors from the renowned University of Missouri School of Journalism.
