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

Reports must always be:

Accurate Concise Clear Well structured

1. A common problem is that students transfer what they have learned about essay writing to report writing.

2. Both essays and reports need: formal style careful proof-reading and neat presentation introduction, body and conclusion analytical thinking

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

a) 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

1. An effective book report must be error-free, clear and coherent.

2. 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

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

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:-

a.vulgar and ill-mannered workers

b.inadequate chairs and tables

c.old and termites infested furniture

d.expensive, stale and non nutritious food

e.no water to wash hands