Report Writing

Overview

In any business situation there is always the need to be able to write quality reports. Whether descriptive or analytical, the quality of writing and the structure of the report will be fundamental to its effectiveness and in securing a positive response!

Key Outcomes

This course aims to give delegates the confidence to write better reports by covering the vital elements of form, organisation, style and tone. Although the programme focuses on widely accepted industry standards, delegates will leave aware of the fact that the format and structure will vary to suit organisational or business needs. The skills learned here will also be relevant to the writing of business letters and other professional texts.

Duration

1 day

Content

• Function and types of report – e.g. descriptive, informative, analytical
• Gathering data for the report – what to include & what to leave out
• The Front matter – letter of transmittal (reason for the report and target audience), contents list, executive summary
• The Body of the report – guide to the structure & layout
• The End matter - references, glossary, appendices
• Developing an effective writing style – practical methods & techniques, (including paragraphing & signposting)
• The use of headings, subheadings & section numbering to aid clarity
• Working with visuals – photographs, diagrams & charts
• Case study practice – project management example, (covering the initial proposal & business justification, the project brief, highlights report and closure report)