What is the last key in the Seven Keys to a Well Written Report?

• A. HOW
• B. WHY
• C. ACTION TAKEN
• D. WHEN

Answer: (C)

The last key focuses on what was done in response to the situation. After you’ve laid out the facts—who was involved, what happened, where and when it occurred, and why it happened—the report closes with a clear account of the actions taken. This part answers questions like, what steps were implemented, who carried them out, when they occurred, and what the outcomes or follow-up needs are.

In the detention center context, this means describing the corrective or disciplinary actions, referrals, policy or procedure changes, notifications to supervisors, safety measures implemented, or any monitoring put in place. Including these details provides accountability and shows that the issue was addressed, while also helping prevent recurrence and guiding future reviews.

The other aspects—how something was done, why it happened, and when it occurred—are important and usually documented earlier in the report. The final section’s focus on actions taken ties everything together by showing the actual response and its impact.