FBI FBI Written Communication and Report Writing 2

Question 1

What is a 'lead' in FBI investigative terminology?

Accepted Answer

A task assigned to an agent or office to follow up on a specific piece of information

Answer

A lead is a specific action item assigned within the Sentinel case management system for an agent or office to follow up on, ensuring accountability in complex investigations.

Question 2

What is the purpose of the FBI's '1A' section in a case file?

Accepted Answer

Housing original evidence and related documents as part of the permanent case record

Answer

The 1A section of the FBI case file contains original documents, subpoena returns, search warrant materials, and other records that form the permanent evidentiary foundation of the case.

Question 3

In FBI written communications, what does the term 'synopsis' refer to?

Accepted Answer

A brief summary paragraph at the top of an EC or case document describing its purpose

Answer

The synopsis is a brief, plain-language summary at the beginning of an FBI document — typically one to three sentences — that tells the reader why the document was written and what action is requested.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes why FBI agents should avoid using passive voice in investigative reports?

Accepted Answer

Passive voice obscures who performed an action, which is critical for legal accountability

Answer

In investigative reports, passive voice obscures the actor — 'the car was searched' vs. 'Agent Smith searched the car' — which is legally significant for establishing probable cause and accountability.

Question 5

What is a 'closing communication' in an FBI case file?

Accepted Answer

An EC or LHM documenting the basis for closing an investigation and summarizing its results

Answer

A closing EC or LHM (Letterhead Memorandum) formally documents why a case is being closed — whether due to prosecution, declination, or exhaustion of investigative leads — and summarizes the investigation's outcome.

FBI Special Agent Test Practice Test

FBI Special Agent Test Practice Test

FBI FBI Written Communication and Report Writing 2