Report Writing Flashcards
7 cards from real MTA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Report Writing flashcards as text
Which of the following statements is the BEST example of objective report writing?
Answer: 'The victim stated she sustained a cut to her left forearm approximately 3 inches long.'
Quoting the victim's statement and providing a measurable description is objective, factual, and verifiable.
An officer responding to a burglary finds a window broken from the outside. How should this be documented?
Answer: 'The window was broken, with glass fragments found inside the residence, suggesting entry from the exterior.'
Documenting observable evidence (glass inside, exterior damage) supports a conclusion without asserting guilt before an investigation concludes.
What does the acronym 'FIDO' remind officers to include in reports?
Answer: Facts, Incidents, Details, Observations
FIDO helps officers remember to include Facts, Incidents, Details, and Observations to produce thorough reports.
An officer should proofread a report before submission primarily to:
Answer: Catch errors that could affect the report's credibility and legal use
Errors in spelling, grammar, or facts can undermine a report's credibility in court and during internal reviews.
When a witness refuses to provide their name, an officer should:
Answer: Document that a witness was present but declined to provide identifying information
Documenting the existence of an uncooperative witness maintains an accurate record while respecting the limits of the officer's authority.
Officer Torres is writing a domestic disturbance report and wants to include a statement made by the suspect. The correct way to record it is:
Answer: Quote the suspect's exact words and attribute them clearly, e.g., 'Suspect Smith stated: "I didn't touch her."'
Exact quotations preserve the suspect's actual words, which is critical for legal proceedings and avoids misrepresentation.
The 'chain of custody' section of a report refers to:
Answer: The documented handling and transfer of evidence from collection to court
Chain of custody documents who handled evidence and when, ensuring its integrity and admissibility in court.