How to write reports
The ability to express oneself clearly on paper and to write effec-
tive reports is one of a manager’s most important skills. As often
as not, it is through the medium of reports that you will convey
your ideas and recommendations to your superiors and
colleagues and inform them of the progress you are making.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD REPORT?
The purpose of a report is to analyse and explain a situation, to
propose and gain agreement to a plan. It should be logical,
practical, persuasive and succinct.
To be an effective report writer you start by having something
worthwhile to say. Clear thinking (Chapter 48), creative thinking
(Chapter 8) and problem solving (Chapter 46) techniques will all
help. Your analysis of opinions and facts and your evaluation of
options should provide a base for positive conclusions and
recommendations.
There are three fundamental rules for report writing:
■ Give your report a logical structure.
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