Writing Reports;The core structure of a report has six sections
The following structure can be used for report writing at university level or for report writing in a professional business situation. The principles for research, drafting, editing and rewriting your report are the same as those for essay writing. The only difference is the overall structure.
The core structure of a report has six sections which can be arranged either deductively or
inductively, depending on specific requirements. Employ the inductive style if you want to lead readers through your argument and convince them of your position. For the purposes of 110.209 you
will need to use the inductive style.
Format for 110.209 Reports
Title page Title of report
Name of person submitting the report
Name of person to whom the report is being submitted(if the assignment gives instructions re
who the report is addressed to, this should be that person or group e.g. Board of Directors) Date of submission
Subject of Report
Introduction Briefly details the context and subject of the report
Defines the objectives of the report
Outlines the scope of the investigation Indicates the broad conclusion reached by the report
Comments on any limitation of the report and assumptions made
Discussion Explains your conclusions
Justifies your recommendations Presents evidence for your conclusions Shows effects of current situations and potential benefits from your recommendations
Is divided into numbered sections with headings Cites any theoretical arguments which support your position
Conclusion
Relates to the objectives detailed in the introduction Is a list of numbered points
Shows major conclusions first
Is short but identifies major issues
Recommendations Suggest an action
Are related to discussion and conclusion
Are numbered
Inductive (required for 110.209 report)
Title page
Introduction
Discussion Conclusion
Recommendation(s) (If required)
References
Are arranged in order of importance Are brief
References
If it is an internal Assignment, you will need to provide references in a consistent style for the preferred method used by the School of Accountancy (APA for 110.209). References are not
expected in examinations.