So You Want to Do a Paranormal Investigation? Start Here with my Top 10 Tips
- Dr Iain M Lightfoot
- May 7
- 3 min read

We’ve all been there, watching a ghost hunting show at 1:00 AM, heart racing as something bangs in the background, and suddenly thinking “I want to do this.”
Starting your first paranormal investigation is more than grabbing a torch and yelling “Is anyone there?” into a dark hallway. It’s about respect, curiosity, patience, and yes, a bit of bravery.
When you start investigating, you like I don't have the answers to our questions. I still don’t think that I ever will. What I do have is a deep desire to learn. In every case, in every silence, every unexplained light, every whisper has taught me something. That’s the real beauty of this, it’s a journey into discovery of the self and beyond.
So if you’re feeling called to the other side (in a purely investigative sense), here’s a mix of practical advice and lived experience to get you started:
Top 10 Tips for Your First Paranormal Investigation
1. Be Respectful – Always
Treat the spirits (they are present) as people. You wouldn’t barge into someone’s home shouting and demanding answers, so don’t do it here. A respectful attitude gets far better results than bravado.
2. Set Your Intentions Before You Begin
Take a moment to ground yourself. Say out loud or internally:
“I come in peace. I mean no harm. I am here to listen.” This helps focus your energy and theirs.
3. Do Your Homework
Know the history of the location. It helps with what to ask and gives meaning to the experience. Spirits don’t tend to respond well to vague or lazy questioning.
4. Don’t Start with Too Much Gear
You don’t need thousands of pounds worth of tech. Begin with the basics:
A notepad and pen
Torch
Voice recorder or an app
EMF meter or cat balls. It’s your focus, not your equipment, that makes you a good investigator.
5. Ask Specific Questions
Instead of “Is anyone here?” try:
“Are you the woman who worked here in the 1800s?”“Can you light the ball again if you’re happy we’re here?” Clear, polite, and focused.
6. Stay Calm (Even If Something Happens)
Your body will want to bolt on occasion and that is natural. Yet often, real phenomena only happen when we’re still and steady. Panic does ruin the moment and clouds your observations.
7. Work in Pairs or Teams
Not just for safety, but for shared validation. Did you both see that shadow? Did you both hear that knock? It helps separate the imagined from the real.
8. Document Everything
Even if it seems boring, log your timings, location details, equipment readings, and personal feelings. You might notice patterns later.
9. Thank the Spirits and Close Properly
At the end, say:
“Thank you for your time spirit. We are leaving now. Do not follow us." It sets a boundary and closes the energy.
10. Review Your Evidence With an Open But Critical Mind
That strange sound? Could be a mouse. That voice on the recorder? Or just radio bleed? Debunk what you can, but don’t let that close the door to genuine mystery.
And NOW You Can Learn All This (and More)...
On 11 July 2025 we’ll be running our Second Paranormal Investigators Course at the incredible Wymering Manor-one of the most active and intriguing sites in the South.
Part 1:
1200 – 1800: In-Person Paranormal Investigation Course:
Learn: Tools, methods, mindset, evidence review, and ethics.🎓 Ideal for both beginners and those wanting to sharpen their practice.
Part 2:
1900 – 0200: Ghost Hunt at Wymering Manor:
Test what you’ve learned in the field, with full support, structure, and equipment. A real location. Real history. Real energy.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Whether you’re curious, cautious, or fully convinced the veil is thin, come and learn with us. You’ll leave with confidence, new skills, and maybe… just maybe… an experience you’ll never forget.
Book your place or find out more: Send me an email and I will book you a place and let the spirits know you're ready.
Comments