TRANSACTIONAL WRITING: Formal Reports

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Reports are factual accounts or summaries written in a formal, concise manner. They are usually requested or commissioned. A formal report awards details and makes recommendations that are based on the information that is presented in the document.

There are different formal reports, such as feasibility studies, research papers, and problem-solving reports.

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The first part of the report typically includes an introductory letter, a brief summary, title page, table of contents, and lists of tables and figures.

Evaluation Reports

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The body of a formal report is designed to feature the report's purpose and to introduce the information contained in the document. An introduction, discussion of data and conclusion lead readers to the best course of action to take. The end of the formal report, or back matter, generally includes an appendix or appendices, bibliography or glossary.

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When writing a formal report, business students are advised to analyze the purpose of the document first, and then plan a time for writing the content and inserting the tables or lists. The report should be revised before choosing a title. No irrelevant data or repeated information should be included in the document's contents. Every effort should be made to make the report, clear, concise and to the point.
https://www.reference.com/education/formal-report-2e0176e3364bdb6e

Example of a Formal Report

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Reports

Reports may be either investigative or eye-witnessed.
The aim is to convey and record information.
The facts must be correct, relevant, informative and able to be substantiated.
*Attention to detail is essential.
For clarity, they may be written in point form.
The tone will be dependent on the type of report you are writing and the audience to whom it is directed.
In order to make the report sound more objective, avoid using the first person (I or me).

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Investigative Report

Heading may include:
Person or persons to whom the report is addressed, Title of Report, Terms of Reference (by whom requested), Procedure, Findings, Conclusions and recommendations.
A report must be signed and dated.

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