Which principle describes recording as near to the event as possible?

• A. Record as close to the event as possible
• B. Record long after the event
• C. Record only major events
• D. Record preferences only

Answer: (A)

When documenting what happened, capturing details as soon as possible after the event helps keep information accurate. Memory fades and can be reshaped over time, so the closer you record to the actual moment, the more reliable the specifics—like sequence, people involved, actions, and exact times—are likely to be. Waiting later invites distortions, omissions, and inconsistent recollections. Recording only major events misses the surrounding context and how things unfolded, while recording preferences focuses on what you personally value rather than what occurred. So, the best practice is to record as close to the event as possible to preserve accuracy and completeness.