Outline:
Section 1: Introduction A. About This Course B. Learning Objectives Section 2: The Importance of Good Report Writing A. Types of Reports B. Why Report Writing Skills Are Important C. Officer Brown’s Report D. The Supervisor’s Review E. Review F. Summary Section 3: The Pre-Writing Process A. Preparing to Write B. Determine Purpose of the Report C. Know Your Audience D. Understand How the Report May be Used E. Gathering Information F. Organize the Information G. Probation Officer Brown’s Parole Violation Summary Outline H. Review I. Summary Section 4: The Writing Process A. It’s Time to Write! B. Structure Your Report C. Types of Details to Include D. Assess Your Knowledge E. Report Writing Rules F. Write Clear and Concise Sentences G. Use the Active Voice H. Avoid Being “Wordy” I. Use Strong, Precise Verbs J. Avoid Using Jargon and Acronyms K. Focus Paragraphs on One Topic L. Organize Paragraphs So They Have a Logical Flow M. Use Transitions N. Use Correct Spelling and Grammar O. Stick to the Facts P. Review Q. Summary Section 5: Evaluating Your Report A. Read, Proof, and Rewrite B. Evaluate Your Report Using the 5 Cs C. Sign Your Report D. Final Review: Probation Officer Brown’s Revised Report E. Review F. Summary Section 6: Conclusion A. Summary B. Course Contributor C. References D. Congratulations! E. Exam F. BrainSparks

Mrs. Cobb is a Lead SME Writer/Trainer at Relias. Her primary writing responsibilities are in the Health and Human Services vertical, in the content areas of public safety and behavioral health. Mrs. Cobb is also the onboarding trainer for new Relias staff joining the Content Department. Mrs. Cobb has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Correctional and Juvenile Justice Studies and a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. She has over 24 years of experience working in criminal and juvenile justice. Her work includes direct service, research, and training and technical assistance. She was the statewide evaluator for the Commonwealth of Kentucky for adult, juvenile, and family drug courts; a Research Associate for the American Probation & Parole Association providing training and technical assistance to Native American Nations/Alaska Native Villages on systemic criminal and juvenile justice initiatives; and a Research Administrator for the University of Kentucky.

Disclosure: Kimberly Cobb, MS has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.