APCAT - Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Problem Analysis and Resolution Flashcards
6 cards from real APCAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 APCAT - Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Problem Analysis and Resolution flashcards as text
A community has experienced a 40% increase in residential break-ins over six months, primarily on Tuesday and Thursday evenings between 18:00 and 22:00. What is the most effective initial strategy?
Answer: Deploy targeted patrols in residential areas on Tuesday and Thursday evenings
Targeted patrols during the identified high-risk times and areas are the most data-driven and cost-effective initial response.
You are investigating a series of car break-ins in a parking lot. Witnesses report seeing the same individual each time, but no arrests have been made. What is the most appropriate next step?
Answer: Conduct surveillance on the parking lot to gather direct evidence
Conducting surveillance to gather direct evidence is the appropriate next step — witness reports alone are insufficient for a lawful arrest.
A constable is called to a dispute between two neighbours over a property fence. Both parties are upset and arguing. What is the best initial approach?
Answer: Listen to each party separately to understand their perspectives before taking any action
Separating and listening to each party individually de-escalates tension and allows the officer to gather accurate, uninfluenced accounts.
Vehicle thefts in your district cluster around three parking locations, all after 22:00. Which problem-solving approach is most appropriate?
Answer: Request increased lighting and signage at the three locations
Environmental improvements such as increased lighting at identified high-risk locations address the root conditions enabling the thefts.
A business owner reports consistent after-hours break-ins through the rear entrance. What problem analysis approach best identifies the root cause?
Answer: Analyse when the break-ins occur, what is taken, and what vulnerabilities exist at the rear entrance
Analysing timing, target selection, and physical vulnerabilities identifies root causes and informs targeted solutions.
Officers notice that calls for service spike on Friday and Saturday nights near two specific bar locations. Which resolution strategy is most appropriate?
Answer: Increase police presence near those locations on Friday and Saturday nights
Targeted, time-specific patrol increases near the identified problem locations is the appropriate, proportionate, and effective response.