waggies Australian Gifts Report Writing
Know your audience Do they have a technical background? Do they need to see comparisons? Do they have a technical background? Do they need to be convinced? Do they need to see projections? Do they only need to see the big picture? Are they hostile? Do they understand jargon/technicalities? Do they require formality/informality? Do they need fine details?
Reports are commissioned/prepared to communicate information - they vary greatly The information/Persuasion mix in reports Information Persuasion Computer Report Safety Report Incident Report Memo/ Letter Report Periodic Report Progress Report Analytical Report Proposal submission (Baden, 1994)
A good rule of thumb … Accurate Brief & concise Complete – full story Direct & clear Library Management, (n.d.).
Major Components Title Page Table of Contents A list of all the report sections Introduction Sets the scene; background; aims Main Body Organise in logical sequence Conclusion Conclusions;significance;success? Following conclusions, what course of action is recommended? Recommendations Appendices Graphs, charts, tables used
Report Format Title Page Table of Contents Introduction, Body, Conclusion Fully blocked, Single spacing Side headings can be used Left/Right Margins – 3.17 cm (depending on presentation – bound at left, etc) Name, page numbers, date in footer (small font)