Police Sergeant Practice Exam

Which type of orders often leaves supervisors unable to follow up effectively?

1. Directives

2. Suggestions

3. Mandatory orders

4. Standard operating procedures

The correct answer is: Suggestions

In the context of police operations and management, suggestions are typically less formal and hold a lower level of authority compared to other types of orders. When a supervisor provides a suggestion, it may not clearly communicate an expectation or mandate, which can lead to ambiguity in implementation. This lack of clarity makes it challenging for supervisors to follow up effectively, as there may not be set criteria or obligations for officers to adhere to. In contrast, directives and mandatory orders are established with a clear expectation of compliance, enabling supervisors to monitor adherence. Standard operating procedures also offer structured guidelines intended to be consistently followed, facilitating an easier tracking process for supervisors. Thus, suggestions may leave supervisors without the necessary framework to ensure that tasks are not only understood but also fulfilled, making follow-up difficult.