ENGL 205 Chapter 8: Getting It Right: Chapter 8
Document Summary
An introduction to report writing: the aim of a report is to inform the reader about something as clearly and concisely as possible. In a report, the idea is to communicate information clearly, thoroughly, and efficiently. Formal report or short report: a short report deals with immediate issues, a formal report covers issues that are generally broader in scope. Length: length will vary depending on the report. Stylistic elements: whichever approach, be consistent with your tone. Formatting: most industries will have their own rules when regarding formatting, the rest of the formatting is based on the type of medium one is using. Formatting the formal report: a short report will take the format of whatever medium is appropriate given the purpose and the audience, a formal report has a variety of components divided into three different sections. Front matter: the letter / memo of transmittal, title page, table of contents, table of figures, abstract, executive summary.