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 Content Writer for Public Safety and Health and Human Services at Relias. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Correctional and Juvenile Justice Studies and a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Mrs. Cobb has 24 years of experience working in criminal and juvenile justice. She has worked in direct service positions as well as in research, training, and technical assistance capacities. 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 managing federal, state, and foundation grants awarded to the College of Medicine, Behavioral Science department, Center for Drug and Alcohol Research, and Kentucky Rural Medical Centers.

 

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