What are the five types of evidence recognized in an investigation?

The five types of evidence recognized in an investigation are real, direct, circumstantial, testimonial, and documentary.

Real evidence, also known as physical evidence, consists of tangible items that can be presented in court, such as weapons, fingerprints, or drugs. Direct evidence provides firsthand proof of a fact, which can include eyewitness accounts or video recordings. Circumstantial evidence indirectly suggests that a fact is true and requires inference; for example, if someone is seen running from a crime scene, it might indicate their involvement, but it doesn't prove it outright. Testimonial evidence is given by witnesses who provide their accounts or opinions based on what they saw or know. Lastly, documentary evidence encompasses written materials, records, or documents that can support or prove facts in the case.

The other choices include terms that either do not represent recognized categories of evidence or contain inaccuracies in the classifications of evidence types. Understanding these five types is crucial for properly conducting and evaluating investigations.