Professional Report Writing

MODULE 1: Introduction and Course Overview

MODULE 2: What is a Report?

Learning outcomes:

To clearly define what a report is, and to list the key aspects that define a report

Topics covered:

• The Definition of a Report
• 9 Key Aspects of a Report

MODULE 3: How to Structure a Report Professionally

Learning outcomes:

To outline the structure that a professional report should be built around, and the appropriate order of appearance

Topics covered:

• An Abstract or Executive Summary
• A Table of Contents
• The Introduction
• A Literature Review
• Methodology
• Results
• Discussion
• Conclusion
• Summary

MODULE 4: What Makes a Good Report

Learning outcomes:

To list the essential criteria that make up a good report, based on reader expectations

Topics covered:

• Objectivity
• Accuracy
• Directness
• Criticality
• Appropriateness
• Sound Logic
• On Time!

MODULE 5: 5 Common Complaints about Reports

Learning outcomes:

To investigate the 5 most common causes of complaints about reports, and how to avoid making them

Topics covered:

• Not answering the brief
• Poor Structure
• Inadequate Content
• Wrong Kind of Results
• Unnecessary Use of Jargon

MODULE 6: A Checklist for Successful Reports

Learning outcomes:

To provide a checklist to use before submitting a report to ensure it is of a good quality

Topics covered:

• Does the report answer the original brief?
• Does the report answer the needs of the reader?
• Is the material presented in relevant and logical sections?
• Is everything correctly and clearly labelled?
• Are all graphs and tables explained properly?
• Does all content relate to the stated objectives?
• Is the report jargon free?
• Have you proof read the report before submitting?

MODULE 7: How to Plan Your Report

Learning outcomes:

To provide a step by step guide to producing good quality reports that will be well received

Topics covered:

• Fully understanding the brief
• Visualising who the reader will be
• Creating the structure of the report
• Obtaining or producing the data
• Analysing the data and information
• Arriving at a conclusion, with a call to action
• Writing the report
• Using the checklist to appraise and edit the report
• Submitting the report

MODULE 8: Your Personal Action Plan