Report Writing - Nature and Characteristics
48 Questions
4 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What formatting is required for the first-level heading in a report?

  • Centered and underlined
  • Centered, may be in uppercase letters and boldfaced (correct)
  • Left-aligned, with first letters capitalized
  • Left-aligned and italicized

Which of the following is NOT a distinguishing feature of a formal or long report?

  • Written in third person
  • Uses informal language (correct)
  • Includes topic headings for organization
  • Contains complete parts or details

What is the correct way to format a third-level heading?

  • One-half inch away from the left margin and underlined (correct)
  • Left-aligned and in uppercase
  • Centered and boldfaced
  • Full-width and italicized

How should the text begin after a second-level heading?

<p>Double-spaced below the heading (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What numbering system should be used for pages preceding the body of the report?

<p>Small Roman numerals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding informal or short reports?

<p>They present findings primarily in table form (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one key difference between the note-bibliographical system and the parenthetical reference system?

<p>One consists of footnotes while the other has in-text citations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What feature is primarily used for organizing topics in a formal report?

<p>Topic headings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily included in the 'Introduction' section of a research report?

<p>Background information and the purpose of the report (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which section of a research report outlines the essential inquiries leading to the writing of the report?

<p>Problem (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Review of Literature' section contain?

<p>Related readings from various sources (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the 'Theory, Methods, Procedures' section?

<p>To detail how the research was conducted (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of information is typically found in the 'Results, Findings, and Data' section?

<p>Graphs, tables, and charts presenting research outcomes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which section provides conclusions based on the research findings?

<p>Discussion, Conclusions, and Recommendations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the 'Bibliography' section of a research report?

<p>The list of sources and references used (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of a research report defines the limits and scope of the study?

<p>Purpose, Objectives, and Scope (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an Article Report?

<p>To inform the masses about general interest topics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of a Laboratory Report outlines the objectives and importance of the experiment?

<p>Introduction (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of report is written daily, weekly, or monthly to note information of interest to an organization?

<p>Periodic Report (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a Laboratory Report presents the step-by-step methods of an experiment?

<p>Procedures (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an Annual Report primarily include?

<p>Activities, projects, and events over the year (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the Laboratory Report is likely to contain tables and figures?

<p>Results and Discussion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Appendices section of a Laboratory Report typically contain?

<p>Raw data, calculations, and supplementary materials (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a Preliminary Report primarily concerned with?

<p>Investigating costs and designs of a proposed project (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT typically included in a research report?

<p>Field Observations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a field report?

<p>To improve understanding of theoretical concepts through practical observation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is essential for a recommendation report?

<p>Introduction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When writing a field report, what key aspect should be avoided?

<p>Presenting mere descriptions without analysis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The typical contents of a recommendation report do NOT include which of the following?

<p>Materials, Equipment, and Facilities (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a research report, which section provides a concise summary of the entire report?

<p>Abstract (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Purpose, Objectives, and Scope' section in a research report entail?

<p>Framework and limitations of the research (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of the 'Review of Literature' section?

<p>To contextualize the research within existing knowledge (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main recommendation to reduce glare from overhead lighting?

<p>Direct overhead light straight downward (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How often should the surfaces of the screens be washed according to the recommendations?

<p>Weekly (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What position should the top of the screen be in relation to the operator's eyes?

<p>Below eye level (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What adjustment is recommended for the placement of keyboards?

<p>At least twenty-seven inches from the floor (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method is suggested to block direct sunlight from the south and west windows?

<p>Draw curtains and adjustable blinds half-drawn (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of chairs is recommended to replace fixed chairs in the workstations?

<p>Adjustable, armless, secretarial chairs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What has been ruled out as a cause of headaches and eye problems related to workstation conditions?

<p>Inadequate contrast of display (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is noted about the research findings regarding low-level radiation from computer screens?

<p>They are inconclusive (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the author's initial concern regarding the tutor's comments?

<p>The comments would be made public to other lecturers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the author feel about their performance in tutorials?

<p>They felt guilty for their lack of contribution. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action did the author take to improve their confidence in tutorials?

<p>Organized informal tutorials with friends. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What outcome did the author experience as a result of the conversation with the tutor?

<p>They became more aware of their behavior in tutorials. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What goal did the author set for themselves during the final weeks of the semester?

<p>To participate at least once in every tutorial. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the author realize about their previous behavior in tutorials?

<p>Not talking made them stand out more. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What emotion primarily characterized the author's feelings regarding their interaction with the tutor?

<p>Embarrassment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the incident with the tutor for the author?

<p>It forced them to reconsider their study habits. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Article Report

A simple report that informs the public about a general interest topic.

Report Types

Business reports are classified into formal (long) and informal (short) reports based on their structure and language.

Laboratory Report

A detailed report about a lab experiment, explaining how it was conducted and the results.

Formal Report Structure

A formal report includes an introduction, body, conclusion, and recommendations; it uses a third-person perspective & topic headings.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Information Report

A report designed to provide information, often including periodic and annual reports.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Periodic Report

An information report submitted regularly (daily, weekly, or monthly) to show progress and trends.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Informal Report Structure

A short report typically has an introduction, presentation of findings (tables), and a conclusion/recommendations. It can use first or second person.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Annual Report

An annual summary of activities, projects, and financial status of an organization.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Report Headings

Reports organize information using different levels of headings (main, side, and paragraph headings) for clear structure and easy topic location.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Preliminary Report

A special information report outlining a proposed project, including costs and design.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Heading Styles

Heading styles vary, but following one consistent style is crucial for readability. Headers can be centered, left aligned or inset, and capitalized or bolded.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Progress Report

A special information report documenting project history from start to current date.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Report Documentation

While documentation is less common in short business reports, longer format reports often use note-bibliographic or parenthetical reference systems for sources.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Final Report

A special information report summarizing the final results of a project.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Report Pagination

Preliminary report pages are numbered with Roman numerals (i, ii, iii). Body report pages have consecutive Arabic numerals.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Report Structure

A typical report structure includes an introductory section, a detailed body (potentially using tables), a summary or conclusion, and possible recommendations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Contents

A structured way to present research findings, including data, methodology, and conclusions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Introduction

Provides background and purpose of the research report, setting the context for the reader.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Problem

Essential questions or situations prompting the research.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Purpose/Objectives/Scope

Researcher's intentions, aims, and limitations of the research.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Review of Literature

Summary of relevant research from existing sources (journals, books, etc.).

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Materials/Equipment/Facilities

List of resources utilized in data collection or execution of the research.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Methods/Procedures

Detailed explanation of the research process and steps taken.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Results/Findings/Data

Presentation of the outcomes, using tables, figures, and charts.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Research Report Format

A standard structure for academic research reports, including transmittal letter, title page, table of contents, abstract, introduction, problem/background, purpose, objectives, scope, literature review, materials/methods, results, discussion/conclusions/recommendations, and bibliography.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Field Report Key Elements

Systematic observation, accurate recording, analysis of observations, and connecting observations to a theoretical framework.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Recommendation Report

A report providing options and choices to address a specific issue, often for decision-making. Includes introduction, background, comparisons, critical requirements, conclusions, and recommendations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Recommendation Report Goal

Aimed at providing solutions to specific issues by presenting options and supporting evidence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Recommendation Report Parts

Structure includes introduction, technical background, comparison of options, critical requirements, conclusions, and recommendations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Avoiding Errors in Field Reports

Focus on both description and analysis of observations and avoid presenting descriptions without analysis

Signup and view all the flashcards

Unfamiliar Situation

A situation that is new and unexpected, leading to uncertainty and discomfort.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lack of Confidence

A feeling of doubt or insecurity in one's abilities or understanding.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Tutorial Feedback

Comments or assessments provided by a tutor on a student's performance in tutorials.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Avoiding Tutorials

Avoiding attendance at tutorials due to negative feelings like fear or anxiety.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Impact of Silence

The surprising effect of not speaking, making someone more noticeable rather than invisible.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Confidence Development

The process of building self-belief and reducing fear of participation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Motivating Goal

A personal target aimed at improving behavior or achieving a desirable outcome.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Positive Outcome

A desirable outcome resulting from personal effort and the impact of a significant event.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Why do reservation agents experience discomfort?

Reservation agents at automated workstations experience discomfort due to excessive glare from background lighting.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What causes screen glare?

Overhead lighting reflecting off display screens causes glare.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How to minimize screen glare?

Use shades to direct overhead lights downward and prevent reflection off screens.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How to reduce overall lighting?

Install lower-wattage bulbs and keep curtains or blinds partially drawn to block direct sunlight.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What is the impact of fixed chairs?

Fixed chairs contribute to backache and stiff joints due to limited adjustability and lack of armrests.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What is the recommended seating solution?

Replace fixed chairs with adjustable, armless, secretarial chairs to improve posture and comfort.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How to reduce glare from light sources?

Reposition screens so light sources are neither in front nor behind the operator.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How often should screens be cleaned?

Clean display screens weekly to remove dust and smudges that can contribute to glare.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Field Report Goals

This type of report aims to link theory and practice using observation and reflection. It helps students understand key concepts and develop observation skills.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Field Report Components

A field report focuses on systematic observation, accurate recording of details, analyzing those observations for meaning, and linking them to relevant theory.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Recommendation Report Purpose

Recommending a course of action to address a specific issue or question by providing options, analysis, and justifications.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Recommendation Report Sections

Typically includes introduction, technical background, comparison of options, critical requirements, conclusions, and recommendations sections.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Field Report Errors

Common errors include presenting descriptions without analysis, failing to connect observations to theory, or neglecting to record specific details.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Common Research Report Contents

Typically includes a title page, table of contents, abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and references.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Recommendation Report Content

Provides a detailed analysis of options, comparing their strengths and weaknesses, considering critical requirements, and ultimately making recommendations based on evidence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Report Writing - Nature and Characteristics

  • Reports are categorized by subject focus (technical, scientific, etc.)
  • Report success depends on how well the writer develops the subject.
  • Reports are categorized by formality (formal or informal).
  • Tone and format determine if a report is formal or informal.

Formal Report

  • Follows a prescribed format with elaborate layout and binding.
  • Depth, complexity, and style are distinguishing features.
  • Aims to analyze and interpret current/past conditions to propose future action.

Informal Report

  • Typically brief (two or more pages).
  • Employs ordinary letter or memorandum format.
  • Uses conversational style and personal information.

Mechanics of a Written Report

Margins

  • Margins frame the report, making it attractive.
  • Typically one inch on all sides, and one and a half inches on top.

Spacing

  • Reports can be single-spaced or double-spaced.
  • The trend is towards single-spacing.
  • Double-spaced paragraphs are indented half an inch.
  • Indenting the first word is optional.

Topic Headings

  • Help readers follow the report's organization.
  • Allow quick referencing to sections.
  • Informative headings: introduce section content (e.g., Income for first quarter).
  • Structural headings: point out functional sections (e.g., Summary of findings).

Types of Topic Headings

  • First Level: Centered, may be in uppercase and bold.
  • Second Level: Left margin, first letter of important words capitalized.
  • Third Level: One-half inch from left margin and underlined, first letter of important words capitalized

Documentation

  • Documentation in business reports is less frequent.
  • The two most common systems for formal reports are note-bibliographical and parenthetical.

Paging

  • Reports of one or two pages do not need consecutive numbering.
  • Preliminary pages use small Roman numerals (i, ii, iii).
  • Title page is page 1, unnumbered.
  • Body pages are consecutively numbered with Arabic numerals.

Kinds of Reports According to Format

Formal Report (Long Report)

  • Includes complete parts or details (introduction, body, conclusion, recommendations).
  • Uses formal language (third person).
  • Uses topic headings for organization, comprehension, and locating specific topics.

Informal Report (Short Report)

  • Lacks the detailed structure of a formal report.
  • Introduction and presentation of findings in table form.

Kinds of Reports According to Purpose

Article Report

  • Aims to inform the masses on general interest topics.
  • Similar to magazine articles.

Laboratory Report

  • Comprehensive, communicates lab observations and results to management (How did we do it?).
  • Includes abstract, introduction, procedures, results and discussion, and conclusions

Information Report

  • Aims to inform, based on the title.
  • Periodic reports: employee or subordinate reports to superiors, daily, weekly, monthly.
  • Annual reports: annual listing of activities, projects, financial information.

Preliminary Report

  • Investigates a proposed project, including costs, designs, elements.

Progress Report

  • Records activity history from start until present.

Final Report

  • Summarizes the completion of a project, outlining the plan execution.

Research Report

  • Generates data in a laboratory or field.

  • Presents data and conclusions, along with details on the methodology applied.

  • Includes introduction, problem, purpose/scope, literature review, materials/facility, theoretical framework, methods & procedures, results, findings & data interpretation, discussion, conclusions, recommendations, and bibliography.

Field Report

  • Aims to improve student understanding of theory through observation of real-world situations.
  • Involves systematically observing and recording details while analyzing for meaning in a theoretical framework.

Recommendation Report

  • Addresses questions needing a decision.
  • Includes options, choices, and reasons.

Incidental Report

  • Describes incidents with details, feelings, context, demands, and consequences.

Accomplishment Report

  • Documents activities and achievements to monitor the progress and success of plans.
  • Often uses tables/charts with columns: number, action, initiator, responsible person, remarks.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

Report Writing PDF

Description

This quiz explores the essential elements of report writing, covering both formal and informal reports. It emphasizes the characteristics that distinguish these reports, as well as the mechanics of writing, such as margins and spacing. Understanding these components is crucial for effective report creation.

More Like This

Mastering Reports Quiz
10 questions

Mastering Reports Quiz

PermissibleAwe avatar
PermissibleAwe
Formal Report Types
14 questions

Formal Report Types

GodGivenEuler avatar
GodGivenEuler
Formal Reports: Definition, Categories, and Structure
27 questions

Formal Report Structure: Front Matter Components and Rules

SharpestDanburite4941 avatar
SharpestDanburite4941
Report Writing and Negotiation Language
13 questions

Report Writing and Negotiation Language

RapidLove avatar
RapidLove
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Open
Browser
Browser