Steps for Writing an Effective Report

Next we are going to explain a series of useful steps in order to write a report correctly.

1. What objective do we have?

Before we start writing we must reflect on what we want to achieve with our report. Are we going to request the solution to a problem or simply to store data so we can use it later? Do we want to reflect a scientific investigation or file a complaint? We must take this into account to select the type of report that is most pertinent according to the case.

2. Take into account the type of text you are going to use

Not all reports are the same, and each one may present its own distinctive characteristics. For example, an expository report will reflect data without making any type of interpretation regarding them, there is no possibility of making conclusions, while a demonstrative type will require the subject to elaborate hypotheses and test them in such a way as to obtain a series of results and conclusions.

3. Contemplate the target

Not only does the for what or the how matter, but you must think about which public your report is aimed at. This will allow us to adapt the level of language to both our needs and those of said audience.

4. Selection and analysis of the info
Based on the previous step, it is essential to gather the information that we want to provide and structure it properly so that our discourse has a common thread. The type of data to be reflected and who or how the information has been extracted must also be taken into account.

5. We can use graphic elements

Although it depends on the type of report, it is possible to use visual elements that make the data easier to understand. We are referring, for example, to the use of bar graphs to analyze frequencies or to carry out a profit and cost analysis.

6. Title

Although it may seem silly to mention it, the correct title of the report in a clear way, relative to the subject that entails its completion and easily understandable is something that greatly facilitates its understanding by readers.

7. Write the introduction

In this first section of the report in question we will make a brief summary of the topic to be dealt with in the report. It should include the objective of the report and the problem that generates the need for its existence and the context in which it is carried out.

8. Expand the ideas and explain the research in the development

In the body of the report we will have and expand the information about the event or investigation, making clear the methods and actions that show how the situation occurred or performed and how to obtain the data.

9. Make a conclusion

The last part of the report should reflect the final result of what was explored and reflected in the report or the demand or request that is made in order to resolve the situation. It must be clear and understandable.

Listen to the content of the video to learn more about this topic.