Which of the following is NOT one of the seven essential elements of report writing?

In report writing, especially within the context of jail or law enforcement documentation, maintaining objectivity and factual accuracy is critical. The seven essential elements of report writing typically include aspects such as who was involved, what occurred, where it happened, when it happened, why it happened, how it was handled, and the actions taken.

The inclusion of personal opinion in a report is generally discouraged because it can introduce bias and subjective interpretation of events, which detracts from the reliability of the report. Reports are meant to provide clear, objective accounts that can be referenced in legal proceedings or policy reviews. By excluding personal opinions, reports remain factual and maintain their integrity as records of events.

The other elements listed — action taken, how, and who — are foundational components of report writing that contribute to a complete and accurate narrative. They help to ensure that every essential aspect of the incident or situation is documented, promoting clarity and understanding for anyone reviewing the report.