A report is a systematic, well organized document which defines and analyses a subject or problem, and which may include:
the
record of a sequence of events interpretation
of the significance of these events or facts evaluation
of the facts or results of research presented discussion
of the outcomes of a decision or course of action conclusions recommendations
Report structure
One
important advantage that a report has over written communication is that it
follows a standardized format. This enables readers to find and focus on
specific pieces of information
Summary (Abstract)
The summary should
briefly describe the content of the report. It should cover the aims of the
report, what was found and what, if any, action is called for. Aim for about
1/2 a page in length and avoid detail or discussion; just outline the main
points. Remember that the summary is the first thing that is read. It should
provide the reader with a clear, helpful details
of the stratigraphy at three sites - Copt Oak, Mount St. Bernard Abbey and Oaks
in overview of the content of the report.
Contents
The contents page
should list the different chapters and/or headings together with the page
numbers. Your contents page should be presented in such a way that the reader
can quickly scan the list of headings and locate a particular part of the
report. You may want to number chapter headings and subheadings in addition to
providing page references. Whatever numbering system you use, be sure that it
is clear and consistent throughout.
Introduction
The introduction sets
the scene for the main body of the report. The aims and objectives of the
report should be explained in detail. Any problems or limitations in the scope
of the report should be identified, and a description of research methods, the
parameters of the research and any necessary background history should be
included.
Discussion
The main body of the
report is where you discuss your material. The facts and evidence you have
gathered should be analyzed and discussed with specific reference to the
problem or issue. If your discussion section is lengthy you might divide it
into section headings. Your points should be grouped and arranged in an order
that is logical and easy to follow. Use headings and subheadings to create a
clear structure for your material. Use bullet points to present a series of
points in an easy-to-follow list. As with the whole report, all sources used
should be acknowledged and correctly referenced.
Conclusion
In the conclusion you should show the overall
significance of what has been covered. You may want to remind the reader of the
most important points that have been made in the report or highlight what you
consider to be the most central issues or findings. However, no new material should
be introduced in the conclusion
