Clarity reduces the next round of questions
A short review note is useful only if it communicates the issue. “Please fix” gives the preparer little direction. A clear note identifies the working paper, the question and the action needed.
Keep the note focused on one issue where possible. This makes it easier to respond and confirm whether the point has been resolved.
Separate the observation from the action
State what you observed. Then state what needs to be checked or changed. Refer to the task or supporting file so the preparer can find the context.
Avoid wording that assumes an answer before the work is reviewed. Some notes require clarification. Others require additional evidence or an update to the documentation.
Keep the response with the note
The preparer should explain what changed and point to the relevant work. The reviewer should be able to follow that response without reconstructing a separate conversation.
Define who can clear a note under your firm’s process. A preparer’s response and a reviewer’s acceptance are different steps. Keep that distinction visible.
Use outstanding notes to guide the review
Review open notes by engagement and responsibility. Discuss items that block completion. Avoid using a total count as the only measure of review progress.
OLi Audit includes review notes, sign-offs and feedback tracking. In a demo, follow one note from creation to response and resolution. Ask where outstanding notes appear and how the related task is opened.
Your next step
Take three recent review notes that required follow-up questions. Rewrite them with a reference, a clear issue and a specific next action. Use those examples when introducing a consistent feedback format to the team.
Quick answers
What belongs in a review note?+
Include the relevant reference, observed issue and required next action.
Is responding to a note the same as clearing it?+
No. Your firm should define the reviewer’s resolution or clearance step.
Original practical guidance prepared for OLi with AI assistance. It focuses on workflow and product evaluation. It does not replace your organization’s policies or professional advice.
