Leave an uncertain detail visible in a short note
What do I put in a record when one detail is still unknown?
When documenting an event, it's important to clearly distinguish between what you know and what remains uncertain. This approach helps maintain clarity and accuracy in your records, preventing assumptions from clouding your observations. This worksheet can be particularly useful in situations where you need to organize and present facts clearly, such as when managing custody arrangements across two homes.
Use the following blank table to keep your notes organized:
| What is known | Original reference | What remains unknown |
|---|---|---|
Fictional worked example
Consider an example where you found a library book in a school bag:
| What is known | Original reference | What remains unknown |
|---|---|---|
| I received a blue school bag at the changeover. | Message: "School bag, Oct 16" | I do not know when the book was packed. |
Explanation of fields:
- What is known: This captures direct observations or facts. In this example, it's the receipt of the school bag.
- Original reference: This field includes specific references to messages, documents, or other communications that support what you know, such as the message about the school bag.
- What remains unknown: Clearly state any uncertainties or gaps in your knowledge. Here, the unknown detail is when the book was packed into the bag.
By keeping these fields distinct, you ensure that your records are straightforward and reliable. This method avoids the pitfalls of speculation and helps you maintain a factual account.
For more guidance, visit the factual record template by Custody Companion.