Which of the following is one of the first four characteristics of a well written report?

• A. Factual
• B. Biased
• C. Vague
• D. Redundant

Answer: (A)

Factual information is foundational in a well written report. In law enforcement writing, the goal is to convey what happened based on observable and verifiable evidence, not personal opinions or assumptions. A factual statement sticks to concrete details—dates, times, locations, who was involved, actions taken, and what was observed or reported by others. It presents information in a neutral, objective way, and if conclusions are drawn, they are clearly supported by the facts and not presented as plain facts. This strict focus on fact keeps the report credible and useful for investigations and potential legal proceedings.

Choosing this over biased language helps maintain fairness and impartiality; avoiding vague wording ensures readers can understand exactly what occurred without guessing; eliminating redundancy keeps the report concise and efficient. In contrast, biased, vague, or redundant phrasing obscures the truth, reduces clarity, and can hinder the investigation or decision-making process.