Report writing is a bit like Marmite (overseas students see explanation below) – you either love it or loathe it.
If you struggle with Report Writing we have a short course which will help build your confidence in this area. But in the meantime read the following tips to get you started:
1. Make sure you understand what the main aims and objectives are for your report. If you’re not sure ask whoever it was that requested the report.
2. Write the report in the language that is appropriate for the person who is going to read it. For example, if the reader is not a technical person, write your report without technical jargon.
3. Decide what information you will need and where you are going to find it.
4. Decide the layout and format of your report. Remember to keep your reader in mind so that the information you present will be clear to them.
5. Include the following sections in your report (those marked * can be left out of the most basic reports).
Title/title page
Circulation List
Summary*
Table of Contents*
Introduction
Main Section (body of your report)
Conclusions
Recommendations
Appendices*
Bibliography*
Glossary*
Index*
6. Plan your report. Spending a short amount of time planning will make writing your report easier. Start with your title as this will help focus your mind and then run through points 1-4.
7. Gather the information you need, select what you are going to use (generally you collect more than you need) and remember to keep your report relevant and concise.
8. Once gathered, put your information into the order you wish to present it. This will give you an outline to your report and a rough idea how long it will be.
9. Make sure you understand the information you have gathered so you can interpret it correctly and present it clearly.
10. Prepare your report in rough then think about the presentation. Make sure it is neat, has plenty of white space, your spelling, grammar and punctuation are correct and double check the accuracy of the facts. A well presented report can help the reader understand the content more easily and will make you look good.
What is Marmite? Marmite is a bi-product of the brewing industry. It’s a dark, sticky, salty, yeast flavoured goo that we Brits spread on our bread or toast with plenty of butter. The Australian equivalent is Vegemite. It is one of those things you either love or loath.
I’m in the ‘love it’ camp myself. And, thanks to our Report Writing Course I quite like writing the odd report too!
