Reports Format and Sections

1. Reports � Format and Sections

2. Reports range from casual to very formal. Informal reports include status reports, trip reports, and some lab reports. Formal reports are often based on primary and secondary research and submitted to an academic journal for publication. The formality of a report depends on the intended reader and his/her needs and expectations.

3. Report Format � All reports should allow for easy navigation. Abstract Introduction Literature Review (formal) Methods Results Conclusions Recommendations

4. Abstract Can be descriptive or informative (preferred) Usually 150 words or less. All major sections summarized in a brief paragraph Intended to give expert readers a clear indication of specific technical goals and outcomes Does not include source citations or definitions Avoids statements like �This report discusses� or �Several solutions are considered.�

5. Introduction Provides sufficient context/background for all readers to understand the research problem and goals for the study Narrows focus by specifying scope and scale of study Previews report content Can include literature review

6. Literature Review Found in more formal reports Reviews all relevant research related to topic Can simply summarize or provide analysis of the outcomes of previous research Important to consider your study as part of a continuum of research that shapes future studies Can be used as a rationale for your methods

7. Methods/Procedures Answers the question �What did you do?� Can appear in list or paragraph form, often depending on formality of report Should be in past tense, often in passive voice Never in imperative mood (command form) Includes all steps, including observation and consolidation of information

8. Results Answers the question �What did you see?� Always objective Often presented in the form of a graphic, such as a table Highlights significant data that is analyzed in Conclusions Can be combined with Conclusions if indicated in the heading

9. Conclusions/Discussion/ Analysis Answers the question �What do the results mean?� Always subjective, explaining expected and unexpected results May offer possible reasons for results Often includes graphics such as bar graphs and line graphs that present results information from a different perspective Must consider this study as a shaping force for others� research (implications) Transitions to Recommendations

10. Recommendations Answers the question �What should be done now?� Picks up on Conclusions section � should never be a surprise May be in the form of a list of action items Does not provide rationale

11. Points to remember Allow readers to understand details, scale, and scope in abstract. Allow readers to choose sections based on their needs. Consider which graphics provoke interest, provide objective data, and prompt analysis. Most importantly, know what your reader(s) expect based on the situation, the assignment, and the type of report requested.

12. References [1] �ME 427 Fall Calendar.� Ohio University. www.ent.ohiou.edu/.../Dilbert_status.gif [2] Laflen, A. (2004). Abstract [Computer manual]. http://owl.english.purdue.edu/workshops/hypertext/reportW/abstract.html