Documentation Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real CSI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Documentation Techniques flashcards as text
What information must appear on every evidence label or tag at a crime scene?
Answer: Item number, date/time collected, collector's initials, and case number
Evidence labels must include item number, date/time collected, collector's initials, and case number to maintain a complete chain of custody.
In 360-degree crime scene photography, what is the recommended overlap between adjacent photos?
Answer: 25–30% overlap
A 25–30% overlap between adjacent photos ensures complete coverage and allows photos to be stitched into panoramic or 3D reconstructions.
What is the 'baseline method' used for in crime scene sketching?
Answer: Locating evidence by measuring from a single straight reference line
The baseline method locates evidence by taking perpendicular measurements from a single straight reference line such as a wall or roadway edge.
Which documentation method is considered the 'gold standard' for preserving a crime scene in three dimensions?
Answer: Laser scanning (3D LiDAR scanning)
3D LiDAR laser scanning captures millions of precise data points to create an accurate three-dimensional model of the entire crime scene.
When should video documentation of a crime scene ideally occur?
Answer: Before any evidence is moved or processed, as an initial overview
Video documentation should occur as an initial overview before evidence is moved, capturing the scene in its original undisturbed state.
What does 'establish, medium, and close-up' refer to in crime scene photography?
Answer: A three-shot progression that documents evidence in context and detail
The establish, medium, and close-up progression ensures evidence is documented showing its location in context and then in increasing detail.
Why is a scale (ruler or measuring tape) placed next to evidence before photographing it?
Answer: To show the actual size of the evidence item in the photograph
A scale in the photograph allows viewers to determine the actual size of the evidence item when reviewing the image later.