What do examiners usually look for in a fingerprint?

Examiners typically focus on ridge characteristics when analyzing fingerprints because these unique patterns are critical in identifying individuals. Each person's fingerprints have distinct features such as whorls, loops, and arches, along with more intricate details like ridge endings and bifurcations. These ridge characteristics create a reliable and scientifically validated method for establishing identity since no two fingerprints are alike, even among identical twins. Thus, when examiners compare fingerprints, they meticulously analyze these ridge patterns to determine matches or discrepancies, making ridge characteristics the most important aspect in fingerprint analysis.