How to write a report

Report Writing: Formatting the Report Elements

Here are the main sections of the standard report writing format:

• Summary - There needs to be a summary of the major points, conclusions, and recommendations. It needs to be short as it is a general overview of the report. Some people will read the summary and only skim the report, so make sure you include all the relevant information. It would be best to write this last so you will include everything, even the points that might be added at the last minute.
• Introduction - The first page of the report needs to have an introduction. You will explain the problem and show the reader why the report is being made. You need to give a definition of terms if you did not include these in the title section, and explain how the details of the report are arranged.
• Body - This is the main section of the report. The previous sections needed to be written in plain English, but this section can include jargon from your industry. There needs to be several sections, with each having a subtitle. Information is usually arranged in order of importance with the most important information coming first. If you wish, a “Discussion” section can be included at the end of the Body to go over your findings and their significance.
• Conclusion - This is where everything comes together. Keep this section free of jargon as most people will read the Summary and Conclusion.
• Recommendations - This is what needs to be done. In plain English, explain your recommendations, putting them in order of priority.

This report writing format will make it easier for the reader to find what he is looking for. Remember to write all the sections in plain English, except for the Body. Also remember that the information needs to be organized logically with the most important information coming first.