What details are important when writing notes during an investigation?

When documenting notes during an investigation, focusing on the who, what, where, when, why, and how is essential for creating a comprehensive and reliable record of events. This method ensures that all critical elements of the investigation are captured, providing a clear timeline and context that can be referenced later. Each component plays a vital role:

• "Who" identifies the people involved, including victims, witnesses, and suspects.

• "What" describes the events or actions that occurred.

• "Where" establishes the location of the incident, which is crucial for evidence collection and understanding the scene.

• "When" gives a chronological framework, helping to establish timelines and patterns.

• "Why" explores the motives or circumstances surrounding the incident, which can inform the investigation’s direction.

• "How" outlines the means or methods used during the events, which is important in analyzing what occurred.

This thorough approach also aids in legal proceedings where detailed and factual accounts are necessary for evidence presentation. In contrast, focusing solely on limited details such as just the what and where may lead to incomplete records and potential gaps in understanding the overall situation. Additionally, including personal opinions or expected outcomes deviates from the objective nature of investigative documentation, which should strictly reflect facts.