Which is an essential characteristic of a well-written report?

A well-written report must prioritize clarity and coherence, as these qualities ensure that the information is easily understood by the intended audience. When a report is clear, the reader can grasp the main points without confusion, making it effective for communication. Coherence ties together the ideas logically, allowing for a flow that guides the reader through the report smoothly.

In the context of police report writing, the clarity of information is particularly important. Readers, whether they are officers, attorneys, or judges, need to quickly access and understand the facts presented without wading through ambiguous language or disorganized thoughts. Coherent structure, including well-defined sections and logical progression of ideas, is crucial in documenting incidents accurately and professionally.

While subjective analysis, length and detail, and persuasiveness might have their places in certain types of writing, they do not serve as foundational characteristics for effective police reports. Reports should be objective and succinct, focusing on facts rather than personal interpretations or persuasive language. Maintaining a balance between detail and brevity also ensures that the report is comprehensive yet accessible. Ultimately, clarity and coherence support the primary goal of police report writing: to communicate essential information in a straightforward manner.