Unless you have a photographic memory or can memorize information better than a tape recorder, it’s best to learn how to take notes properly if you’ll be working as a private investigator.  In the absence of a camera or recording device, you will need to master this skill if you want to succeed as a private eye.  Here are ways you can take note of important information and data:

Learn to identify data.
You cannot take note effectively as a private investigator if you can’t recognize data when you come across some.  Names, dates, addresses and phone numbers are some of the most common data you’ll have to write down. 

You will also encounter plenty of references such as gender, age, race, build, height, weight, distinguishing marks, landmarks, names of buildings, streets, plate number, make, directions, etc.  Learn to take in all the information but to use only the most important ones as part of your notes.  

Remember the Ws and an H
This is something you’ve learned in grade school that will come in handy as a private coordinator – take not of the who, what, where, when, why and how.  Remember other information such as frequency, physical description and witnesses’ perception.

Use your powers of observation.
To be an effective private investigator, you must be a keen observer.  Take note of things that can affect information and data such as changes in the weather, shifts in behavior, differences in documents or items, unusual colorings or markings, inconsistencies in presented data or evidence, etc. 

Learn to compare.
You can’t always bring your videocam or a measuring tape during your investigations so you will have to make do with what you have or what’s available.  If you can’t make a good estimate of a person’s height, for example, try to compare them with an object nearby, such as a door post, tree or car.  You can then take note of your observations on your notepad.

Keep it simple.
The more complicated you make your notes, the more difficult they can be.  Keep your sentences short but concise and keep your information intact.  Don’t try to corrupt your data by adding your own biases or using your emotions.

Common sense tips on taking notes
As a private investigator, data and information are very essential to your business.  Write them down clearly and accurately.  Make sure the information is complete and if you must take note of exact quotes, make sure they are, in fact, exact.  Even slang words and profanities must be noted. 

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