Checklist observations are simple and can be done at anytime with little to no planning or can be planned for a more thorough observation this type of observation is great for day to day activities.

Time sample observations give a good overview throughout a recorded amount of time maybe the day week or month or even just 10 minutes  this type of observation is great overtime for things like behaviour or for children with special needs or learning difficulties as it gives a overview of whatever is being observed i.e. behaviour over a set period of time.

Work samples these may be used in conjunction with another type of observation i.e. jotting observations or post it observations using work samples ensures the observation is completely accurate as it shows exactly what the child did.