Report Format

A report format will depend on the type of report you are writing. Each report format will have its own purpose, sections, organization, and structure. It is important to determine who your audience is when deciding on a report format. Your audience will determine what information you will need to include in the report, as their subject knowledge will be very important. Ultimately you should choose a report format that will best present the information you deem to be important.

Using the correct report format will make your report easy to read. You should use lists whenever possible, use bullets to highlight specific information. Utilize headers and sub headers to form a clear information path through your report. The report format will allow for a clear flow of information form point to point. You should only use one typeface in your report, this is fairly simply but if you have too many typefaces than the significance of your report will be lost and the report format will appear confusing, do not crowd your text. The usage of space can highlight important pieces of text that you wish to highlight. Large blocks of text can hide important information and the reader may skim over that information.

A report format will be easier to follow if you write the body of your text first before and abstract or introduction. Once you have determined your structure make sure to maintain that structure throughout your report. Finally make sure you choose the correct voice when writing. Lab reports mainly are written in the third person and depending on your assignment you may be using a different voice. Memos and Letter require the first person and any described methods will be in the past tense. The report format will not change in your field so once you have mastered writing a report it will just become easier over time.

Tags: report report writing