Which of the following best describes a formal EO complaint?

A formal Equal Opportunity (EO) complaint is characterized by its written nature, which provides a clear and official record of the issue being raised. The aspect of swearing to the accuracy of the information included in the complaint adds a legal weight to the documentation, establishing the complainant's commitment to the facts presented. This formality ensures that the complaint can be processed in accordance with established procedures, allowing for a thorough investigation.

In contrast, complaints lacking written documentation do not meet the formal criteria established for an EO complaint and might not be taken seriously or recorded properly. Similarly, a complaint filed verbally lacks the necessary formality and record that written documentation provides. While direct conversations can help resolve disputes informally, they do not constitute a formal complaint in the context of EO processes, which rely on written statements to initiate a structured resolution procedure. Therefore, the essential elements of a formal EO complaint highlight the importance of written assertions that can be verified, supporting the correct answer.