Which of the following is a listed characteristic of a well written report?

• A. On time
• B. Deliberate vagueness
• C. Heavy sarcasm
• D. Subjective bias

Answer: (A)

Timeliness is a fundamental attribute of a well written report. Submitting on time helps ensure the information is current and accurate, reduces the chance of details being forgotten or distorted by delay, and aligns with department policies and legal deadlines. A timely report supports prompt supervision review, aids evidence-handling procedures, and keeps the investigative record reliable and usable for others who rely on it.

The other options undermine the quality of a professional report. Deliberate vagueness leaves readers uncertain about what happened and can hide critical details, making the report less useful for decisions or future actions. Heavy sarcasm erodes professionalism and credibility, and it can obscure meaning. Subjective bias injects personal opinions into the document, compromising objectivity and the factual basis needed for accountability and future legal use.

So, being on time is the characteristic that aligns with the expectations of a well written report.