> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://orianecohen.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# How to write a GOOD intelligence report
- URL: https://orianecohen.com/how-to-write-a-good-intelligence-report/
- Published: 2025-05-14T15:55:55.000Z
- Updated: 2025-05-14T15:58:04.000Z
- Author: Oriane Cohen
- Tags: intelligence, how to, Fieldcraft & Tradecraft

Writing a good intelligence report is all about CLARITY.

No fancy words, no complicated structure. 

If you are a decision maker, and receive a long report, full of fancy words, so you know, you've been played.

A good report is about clarity, relevance, and actionable insights. 

If you want to produce intelligence reports that leaders actually read - and rely upon - here's a straightforward guide.

## 1\. Know your audience

Before you type a single word, ask:

→ **Who is this report for?**  
→ **What decisions do they need to make?**   
→ **What is the PIR = Priority intelligence requirement?**  
→ **How much detail do they require?**

Different audiences have different needs:

- A CEO wants strategic implications.
- Security managers need operational details.
- Analysts require methodological rigor.

Tailor your language, depth, and focus accordingly.

## 2\. Structure clearly

Your intelligence report should be organized to guide the reader:

**Executive Summary:**

- Provide your main findings upfront.
- Use bullet points for clarity.

**Introduction:**

- Clearly state the objective.
- Highlight the key question or issue.

**Methodology:**

- Briefly explain how the information was gathered and analyzed (OSINT, HUMINT, SIGINT, etc.).
- This adds credibility and context to your findings.

**Findings (detailed analysis):**

- Provide context: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How.
- Break down your analysis into digestible sections.
- Use headings, subheadings, bullet points, and visual aids like charts, graphs, and maps for readability.

The client will read this part ONLY if they need more details.

**Conclusions and recommendations:**

- Summarize your findings succinctly.
- Offer actionable recommendations, clearly linked to your analysis.
- Ensure recommendations are practical and feasible.

## 3\. Precision and relevance

A great intelligence report never wastes words. Every sentence must earn its place:

- Eliminate **jargon** and vague language.
- Be specific. Instead of "significant risk," state precisely what the risk is.
- Always question: "Why is this relevant to the reader’s decision-making?"

## 4\. Use evidence effectively

Good intelligence is evidence-based:

- Clearly distinguish between fact, analysis, and speculation.
- Cite your sources explicitly to enhance credibility.
- Use visuals (charts, maps, tables) to clarify complex data quickly.

## 5\. Provide actionable insights

Intelligence reports should lead to clear action:

- Don’t just describe the situation, explain its implications.
- Provide recommendations that are realistic and actionable.
- Always anticipate follow-up questions and address them proactively.

## 6\. Quality over quantity

Leaders don't like long reports. They don't have time for that. 

Brevity is your ally, and being deep yet synthetic is an art:

- Keep sentences short and impactful.
- Ensure paragraphs have a single, clear message.
- **The best intelligence communicates complex ideas simply.**

## 7\. Review, validate, and test

Before you hit send:

- Double-check your facts (potentially your own biases!)
- Seek peer review: fresh eyes spot errors or ambiguities.
- Test your report by asking, "does this help the decision-maker?"

****Bonus Tip:** 

Use bullet points and graphics. Decision-makers appreciate concise, visually engaging content because their time is limited. This increases the likelihood your report will be fully read and understood.

**Stay *sharp*, remain concise, and write with intent.** 

Your report could shape crucial decisions, so treat every sentence accordingly.

Oriane