Private Investigators: It's All in the Notes!

In our training for private investigators we teach them how to take effective notes during interviews, conducting surveillance and conducting document research. We teach a few different note taking techniques to allow the investigator to adapt to the situation and their own preferred method.

Why is note taking so important? Notes identify facts, track evidence, improve your memory of information received, and they serve as the basis for your final report.  

An experienced investigator commented; "With an empty notebook about the investigation I have nothing."

Here are some techniques to refresh your note taking skills:

• Start each note taking section with header information that includes the date, time, and source of information at a minimum. 
• Leave space so you can expand on your notes later when it is more convenient. 
• Develop your own shorthand for common terms to reduce the time required to take notes. For example; "V" for victim, "W" for witness, "IL" for incident location. Other shorthand includes a person's full name at the beginning then using their initials - "John Doe" then "JD" thereafter. Coming up with your own abbreviations will help you retain them. 
• Organize your notes and store them with the appropriate files. Notes spread out on the desk, saved on different computers or devices are not as effective as keeping them in a logical location. For investigations, always keep your notes with the case file. 
• Often the simplest note taking method is the best ~ pen/pencil and paper. We love technology but there are times when it is not conducive for note taking. Fiddling with an electronic device during an interview or while conducting mobile surveillance is distracting and dangerous. Use the best technique for the situation, i.e. tape recorder while conducting mobile surveillance (TIP: One investigator uses his phone to record notes so if anyone is watching him, it appears they are talking on the phone)
• Always take notes. Documenting an interview, or research, that provides NO useful information is as important as documenting useful information. 

Developing and maintaining your note taking skills as a private investigator is critical to your success. It only takes a little time and is invaluable to your investigation.