How should an FTO document a recruit’s performance?

Documenting a recruit's performance through daily observation reports is the most effective method because it provides a structured and consistent approach to performance evaluation. Daily observation reports allow Field Training Officers (FTOs) to record specific behaviors, skills, and competencies demonstrated by the recruit during each shift. This method ensures that documentation is thorough, actionable, and directly tied to the recruit's daily activities and experiences.

Using daily reports not only facilitates effective communication about the recruit's progress but also creates a comprehensive record that can be used for identifying areas needing improvement, reinforcing good practices, and guiding future training sessions. Regular and consistent documentation helps maintain an objective assessment of the recruit’s performance over time, which is critical for decisions regarding their advancement and overall readiness for solo duties.

In contrast, relying on a casual notebook may lead to unstructured and potentially incomplete records, while verbal discussions only would not provide a tangible record that can be reviewed later. Monthly performance reviews, although useful, may not capture the finer details and variations in performance that occur on a day-to-day basis, potentially missing crucial feedback opportunities. Thus, daily observation reports stand out as the most effective and comprehensive method for documenting a recruit's performance in a field training context.