1. Unit 4: Writing
Writing Reports

2. What is a report?
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

3. Reports must always be:
Accurate
Concise
Clear
Well structured

4. Reports and essays—what’s the difference?
A common problem is that students transfer what they have learned about essay writing to report writing.
Both essays and reports need:
formal style
careful proof-reading and neat presentation
introduction, body and conclusion
analytical thinking

5. But there are some essential differences between the two.
A Report
An Essay
Presents information
Presents an argument
Is meant to be scanned quickly by the reader
Is meant to be read carefully
Uses numbered headings and sub- headings
Uses minimal sub-headings, if any.
May not need references and bibliography/reference list
Always needs references and bibliography/reference list
Uses short, concise paragraphs and dot-points where applicable
Links ideas into cohesive paragraphs, rather than breaking them down into a list of dot-points
Uses graphics wherever possible (tables, graphs, illustrations)
Rarely uses graphics
May need an abstract (sometimes called an executive summary)
Will only need an abstract if it is very long, or if your lecturer asks for one specifically
May be followed by recommendations and/or appendices
Seldom has recommendations or appendices

6. Writing a Report
Writing a formal report involves some procedures that students have to follow:-
Be formal
All points precisely elaborated
The address should be clearly written
Utilize relevant transitional words

7. General Rules when Writing a Report
An effective book report must be error-free, clear and coherent.
Follow these useful tips when writing the report:-
Each paragraph should highlight one main point
Personal responses should be justified with reasons
The report should follow a basic pattern of organization

8. For example: an introduction, a summary (one or more paragraphs), a personal reaction (two or more paragraphs) and a concluding paragraph
Transitional words should be used to link ideas and details
Only use quotations when necessary, for instance to highlight the main ideas

9. The Task
You are very disappointed by the condition and services provided by your college café. You decide to write a report to inform your principal about the deplorable conditions and bad services provided by the college café. The points to be discussed are:-
vulgar and ill-mannered workers
inadequate chairs and tables
old and termites infested furniture
expensive, stale and non nutritious food
no water to wash hands

10. Thank You