CPI Communication & Documentation Skills 2

Question 1

When writing an investigative report, the passive voice is generally discouraged because it:

Accepted Answer

Obscures who performed the action

Answer

Passive voice hides the subject of the action, making it unclear who observed or performed specific acts in the investigation.

Question 2

A CPI is preparing to interview a reluctant witness. The BEST opening technique is to:

Accepted Answer

Build rapport by discussing neutral, non-threatening topics first

Answer

Establishing rapport reduces defensiveness and increases a reluctant witness's willingness to share information.

Question 3

The term 'contemporaneous' in investigative documentation means the notes were:

Accepted Answer

Recorded at or near the time the events occurred

Answer

Contemporaneous notes are made at or very close to the time of the event, increasing their accuracy and credibility.

Question 4

When an investigator must convey complex technical findings to a non-technical client, the BEST approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Translate findings into plain language with clear conclusions

Answer

Investigators must adapt communication to the audience, presenting findings in accessible language with actionable conclusions.

Question 5

A properly structured investigative report executive summary should:

Accepted Answer

Provide a concise overview of findings, conclusions, and recommendations

Answer

An executive summary gives decision-makers a quick, high-level picture without requiring them to read the full report.

(CPI) Certified Professional Investigator Practice Test