2. Why is report writing so
important?
A well-written report…
ď‚— documents your words and actions
ď‚— provides data for statistical reports
ď‚— facilitates investigations
ď‚— showcases your professionalism
3. What are the qualities of a good
report?
It is…
ď‚— efficient (officers are busy, and time is
limited)
ď‚— thorough (information in the report may
be needed for follow-up later on)
ď‚— professional (you may be judged on
what you’ve written)
ď‚— objective (your report documents your
fairness and honesty)
4. What makes a report efficient?
It…
ď‚— includes only necessary words and facts
ď‚— organizes the facts in a clear and logical
sequence
ď‚— can easily be understood by anyone
doing a follow-up investigation
5. What makes a report thorough?
It includes all information needed for
further investigation and action, such
as…
ď‚— Date, time, and location
ď‚— Serial numbers, makes, and models
ď‚— Victims, witnesses, and suspects
ď‚— Miranda rights
ď‚— Evidence
ď‚— Injuries
6. What makes a report
professional?
It…
ď‚— uses Standard English (except when
quoting someone’s exact words)
ď‚— meets guidelines for your agency or
institution
ď‚— follows contemporary criminal justice
practices
7. What makes a report objective?
It…
ď‚— states only what you saw, heard, or did
ď‚— omits opinions and hunches
ď‚— sticks to facts
ď‚— avoids judgments, explanations, and
theories
8. To Learn More:
Criminal Justice Report Writing is available in
softcover ($17.95) from www.Amazon.com and in a
variety of ebook and Apple formats (Kindle, Nook,
SONY etc.) for $11.99 from www.Smashwords.com.
Read a free sample online!
9. Find FREE report writing
resources online at
www.YourPoliceWrite.com