Modus Operandi

Latin: method of operation. Used by law enforcement officials to refer to a criminal's preferred method of committing crime.

For example, car thief "George" may have a break and enter technique that leaves a long scratch mark on the door. Upon discovery of a stolen vehicle with such a mark, the law enforcement officials might include "George" on the list of suspects because the evidence at the crime scene is consistent with his modus operandi.

Other aspects of a modus operandi include whether a know criminal works at night or with partners.