ABSTRACT
This chapter lays the foundation for the rest of the book. Crime analysis is a diverse and complex field; and knowledge is needed in many different areas. Our goal for this book is to introduce students to the practical world of crime analysis and to serve as a reference for practicing crime analysts. This chapter introduces the practicalities of the work life of a crime analyst. It provides information about what knowledge is helpful, some information about becoming a crime analyst, and roles and tasks that are undertaken by crime analysts. We include interviews with crime analysts in their own words so they can speak directly to what it is like to be a crime analyst.
