ENG201 Final Term Past Papers by Ayesha

ENG201 Final-term Easy Notes · Lesson 23: Planning Long Reports · Definition of Report

A report is a formal written document that presents facts, information, findings, and sometimes analysis and recommendations about a specific topic. Reports are usually written after investigation or research and help in decision making. 👉 Example: A report on the causes of low student attendance.

A long report is a detailed and structured document that requires careful planning before writing. Proper planning helps the writer organize information logically, collect relevant data, and present ideas clearly and effectively.

Steps in Planning a Report

Before writing a report, facts must be arranged in a suitable format. The following steps form the foundation of any report:

1. Define the Outline and Purpose

Outline: The basic structure or framework of the report Purpose: The reason for writing the report

Vu by Ayesha

👉 Example: Purpose: To examine the reasons for poor academic performance.

2. Outline the Issue for Investigation

This step identifies the problem or issue that needs to be studied. 👉 Example: Issue: Why are students performing poorly in examinations?

3. Prepare a Work Plan

A work plan is a systematic plan that shows: Sequence of tasks Sources of information Time schedule Available resources 👉 Example: Week 1: Collect data Week 2: Analyze data Week 3: Write report

4. Conduct Research

Research means collecting information in a careful and organized way to support the report.

5. Analyze and Interpret Data, Draw Conclusions and Recommendations

Analyze: Examine data carefully Interpret: Explain the meaning of data Conclusion: Final findings Recommendations: Suggested solutions 👉 Example: Conclusion: Poor teaching methods affect learning. Recommendation: Teachers should be trained regularly.

Defining the Questions

The person who authorizes the report defines the questions that need answers, such as: What needs to be determined?

Why is the issue important?

Who is involved?

Where is the problem located?

How did the problem start?

Developing the Statement of Purpose

A statement of purpose is a short declarative sentence (one or two lines) that clearly explains: What the report is about What the report aims to achieve

Characteristics of an Effective Purpose Statement

Specific and precise Concise Clear and easy to understand Goal-oriented

Examples

✔ Informational Report:

Purpose: To describe the level of substance abuse among factory employees.

✔ Analytical Report:

Purpose: To analyze the effects of substance abuse on employee productivity and suggest solutions.