text: FM 2-22.3 _________________________________________________________________________________
  remember highly detailed information. Often in elicitation, memory is
  the only viable recording method. However, in general, using the
  memory exclusively to record information is the most inaccurate
  methodology. Particularly in a long questioning session, details are
  forgotten and information tends to be generalized.
  • Handwritten notes: Handwritten notes require minimal equipment (a
  pad and pencil), are not intimidating to most sources, and can be as
  detailed as the HUMINT collector desires. If an analyst or second
  interrogator is present, he should also take notes. This second set of
  notes can aid in report writing. The interrogator should not rely solely
  on an analyst’s notes unless absolutely necessary. However, writing
  notes while questioning an individual often interferes with the rapport
  between the collector and the source. The collector loses eye contact
  and can easily miss subtle body language that might indicate lying.
  Detailed note taking can be extremely time consuming and many
  sources will, over time, begin to limit their responses so they do not
  have to repeat information or wait for the collector to write it down. It
  is somewhat intrusive and inhibiting to the source and is totally
  inappropriate in certain situations such as liaison and most casual
  source contacts. Handwritten notes can also be inaccurate, have
  limited details, and can be hard to read after the fact.
  • Computer notes: With the proliferation of computer equipment,
  particularly laptops and handheld devices, note taking on computers is
  increasingly commonplace. A computer can provide access to data-
  based information that may support questioning such as foreign
  language dictionaries or technical support manuals, either through the
  Internet (if connected) or on its harddrive. If the computer is linked to
  a communications system, it also allows the HUMINT collector to
  transmit data, including SALUTE reports, during the course of the
  questioning. Notes taken on a computer, however, have many of the
  same disadvantages as handwritten notes. In addition, computer
  notetaking requires more equipment and technological support and
  access to either electricity or a plentiful supply of batteries. Computers
  may be intimidating to some sources and the fact that what the source
  says is being entered into a computer may cause the source to alter the
  information he is providing. Computers tend to isolate the collector
  from the source by dividing the collector’s attention between the
  computer and the source, and again may cause the collector to miss
  critical body language clues. Finally, the computer is even more
  inappropriate to casual and controlled source operations than are
  handwritten notes.
  • Audiotapes: If recording equipment is discrete and functioning
  properly, audiotapes can be extremely accurate. Use of tapes also
  allows the HUMINT collector to place his entire attention on the
  source. This not only enhances rapport but also allows the HUMINT
  collector to observe the source’s body language. Taping a questioning
  session, if done overtly though, tends to be extremely inhibiting to the
  source and may seriously curtail the information obtained.
  Surreptitious taping can be illegal in some situations and dangerous in
  some situations as well. Consult your legal advisor to determine if