What are the criteria for effective field notes?

The correct criteria for effective field notes are Clear, Concise, Correct, and Complete. These four characteristics are essential because they ensure that the notes taken during an incident or observation are easily understood, provide essential information without unnecessary detail, are accurate in content, and cover all relevant aspects of the situation.

• Clarity is crucial because if the notes are unclear, they may lead to misunderstandings about the details of the incident or situation later on when they are reviewed.

• Being concise means that the notes should be straightforward, avoiding superfluous information that can cloud the main points. This helps in quickly recalling important details.

• Accuracy is vital, as incorrect information can mislead investigations or reports based on those notes.

• Completeness ensures that all pertinent details are recorded, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the event or observation.

This combination allows security personnel to maintain reliable documentation that can be utilized in various situations, such as legal proceedings or incident reviews. Other options present variations that do not fully encompass these critical attributes. For instance, terms like "crowded" or "coded" do not promote the clarity and straightforwardness needed in effective field notes.