What are contemporaneous written observations commonly referred to as?

Contemporaneous written observations are commonly referred to as field notes. This terminology is widely used in various fields, such as law enforcement, social sciences, and research, where accurate and timely documentation of events and observations is crucial. Field notes are typically created during or immediately after an incident or observation, ensuring that the details are fresh and accurately captured. They serve as a vital record that can provide context and support for further analysis or reports. This immediacy plays an essential role in the reliability of the information documented, making field notes a critical tool for professionals in many disciplines.