> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/monolith-features/case-reports.md).

# Case Reports

Monolith supports two primary ways to create case reports: **Monolith Case Reports** and **Custom Report Templates**.

Both options help teams turn structured Monolith case data into a Microsoft Word document that can be reviewed, edited, finalized, and shared according to your organization’s reporting process.

### Monolith Case Reports

Monolith Case Reports are built into the product and allow users to generate reports by selecting the sections they want to include.

This is the most common reporting workflow for users who want a point-and-click way to create a case report without building or maintaining a custom template. Users can choose the relevant report sections, generate the report, and export it to Microsoft Word for final review, formatting, or QC edits.

Use Monolith Case Reports when you want to quickly generate a report from available case data such as case details, evidence, acquisitions, notes, files, contacts, quality assurance, and related activity.

### Custom Report Templates

Custom Report Templates allow organizations to create reusable Microsoft Word report templates that match their preferred reporting style, structure, formatting, and language.

These templates use Monolith report variables and template logic to populate Word documents with data from Monolith. Custom templates are useful when your organization has a specific report format, agency standard, branding requirement, or internal review process that needs to be reflected in the final report output.

Custom Report Templates are powerful, but they may require additional setup because they use Monolith’s report variables and template syntax.

### Which Reporting Option Should I Use?

| Reporting Option            | Best For                                                                                     |
| --------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Monolith Case Reports**   | Quickly generating a report by selecting sections from the Monolith UI                       |
| **Custom Report Templates** | Producing reports that match a specific Microsoft Word document format or organization style |

For most standard reporting workflows, start with **Monolith Case Reports**.

Use **Custom Report Templates** when your organization needs a specific Word document layout, custom wording, advanced formatting, or more control over how report data is displayed.

### Report Review and Finalization

Reports exported from Monolith can be opened in Microsoft Word for final review.

This allows users to:

* Review report content before final delivery
* Make QC edits
* Adjust formatting if needed
* Add final comments or supplemental language
* Save or distribute the finalized report according to the organization’s process

### Next Steps

To learn more about the standard point-and-click report builder, see **Monolith Case Reports**.

To learn more about custom Word-based templates and report variables, see **Custom Report Templates**.