Intelligence Analysis Methods Flashcards
6 cards from real FBI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Intelligence Analysis Methods flashcards as text
Which cognitive bias involves overweighting the first information received when forming an assessment?
Answer: Anchoring Bias
Anchoring bias causes analysts to rely too heavily on initial information, making it difficult to revise assessments as new data arrives.
What is a 'collection gap' in the intelligence cycle?
Answer: A known area where needed intelligence has not been collected
A collection gap identifies areas where necessary information is absent, guiding future collection requirements.
In intelligence writing, what does 'bottom-line-up-front' (BLUF) mean?
Answer: Presenting the main conclusion or key judgment at the beginning of the product
BLUF is a writing standard that places the most important finding or recommendation at the very start of an intelligence product.
What is 'SIGINT' as used in the U.S. intelligence community?
Answer: Signals Intelligence collected from electronic communications and emissions
SIGINT encompasses intelligence derived from intercepted communications (COMINT) and electronic emissions (ELINT).
What is the purpose of a 'threat assessment' in FBI intelligence analysis?
Answer: To evaluate the likelihood and potential impact of a specific threat to national security or public safety
A threat assessment evaluates the credibility, capability, and intent of a threat actor to help inform protective or investigative actions.
Which technique involves identifying events that, if they occur, would cause an analyst to significantly revise an assessment?
Answer: Indicators and Warnings (I&W)
Indicators and Warnings identify observable signals that would confirm or challenge current analytical judgments.