Better report writing

Overview
Formal report writing can sometimes seem daunting, particularly when so much of our communication is now done via phone, email and text. There are three essential elements to successful reports: a clear sense of objective, a coherent structure and the confidence to write in an appropriate style. This course provides useful guidance in all these areas and also allows you to bring examples of your own writing for constructive critique.

Prerequisites
It is not essential to have previous experience of report writing, although you will gain more from the session if you're able to bring along examples of your own work.

Course Content Identifying objectives

• Information v Persuasion
• Understanding your audience

Structuring your report

• Different types of report and the conventions for writing them
• Alternative structures and approaches - including sub-division, numbering systems, footnotes etc

Stylistic considerations

• Finding the right tone of voice for your audience
• Key grammatical issues and problems
• Establishing the right level of formality

Afternoon workshop session

• Constructive criticism and discussion in relation to delegates' own work
• Practical writing exercises to improve confidence