Lecture 1
RWS
What is a report?
A report is a structured form of writing that identifies a
problem, examines it in detail, and presents results, discussions,
suggestions, and recommendations in an organized manner.
1.1.1 Characteristics of a Report
Reports use headings and subheadings to show the hierarchy of
information.
Main headings are visually distinct from sub-headings (e.g.,
using bold and a larger font).
Report sections should be self-contained and understandable
without needing to refer to other sections.
Reports are impartial and use facts and figures to maintain
objectivity.
Personal opinions and subjective language are avoided.
1.1.2 Expectations
A report is based on a problem or hypothesis, which is the
report's topic.
A synopsis/proposal outlines the report's basic structure.
A report needs a clear purpose, research questions, and defined
population and sample.
A report is written for a specific audience (client, manager, etc.).
The audience's background knowledge and expectations should
be considered.
Reports have a clear structure and format with headings and
subheadings.
Objective language is used, avoiding personal or subjective
language.
The author should avoid using first-person singular and plural.
Good research and analysis are essential for a credible and
effective report.
1.1.3 General Purpose of Writing a Report
Reports are written to: Inform: Provide impartial and authentic
information. Persuade: Analyze data to support a
position/hypothesis and convince the audience. Influence:
Persuade the audience to take action. Initiate: Trigger a shift in
perspective and behavior, leading to change.
1.1.4 Significance of a Report
Reports maintain a written record of tasks and activities within
an organization.
Reports facilitate internal communication within an
organization.
This communication can be upward (employee to employer),
downward (employer to employee), or parallel (employee to
employee).
1.1.5 Relevance of a Report
Reports serve as a means of internal communication.
They aid in project planning and decision-making by providing
new information through data analysis.
Reports contribute to the existing body of knowledge and
disseminate information among employees.
1.2 Report Attributes
A report is a methodical and well-planned document that
outlines and evaluates a subject or problem.
It is concise and written for a specific purpose and audience.
It analyzes a situation or problem and often recommends future
actions.
A report is factual, clear, and well-structured.
1.3 Features of a Well-Written Report
A well-written report demonstrates clarity of thought and
comprehensive knowledge.
Information is presented in a self-explanatory and brief manner.
The report has a presentable and legible structure.
1.4 Report vs. Essay
Reports and essays have similarities and differences.
1.4.1 Similarities
Common features include: An introduction A detailed body A
conclusion Analytical thinking Formal style Careful
proofreading Neat presentation
1.4.2 Differences
Key differences: Reports provide information, while essays
argue for a particular topic. Reports are structured for quick
scanning with numbered headings and subheadings, unlike
essays. Reports are technical documents with simple sentence
structures, compared to essays that may use complex
sentences. Reports may include tables, graphs, and
illustrations, whereas essays are primarily text-based. Reports
begin with an abstract/executive summary, while essays present
an outline in the introduction. Reports offer suggestions and
recommendations after analysis, while essays conclude by
reviewing arguments and may not provide recommendations.
