Report Writing

Course duration – 1 day

“Produce reports that achieve positive results.”

Business scenario

Writing reports is a key part of how we communicate in the workplace, both through lines of management and through teamwork. Nevertheless, very few writers receive the training and support they need to write useful reports quickly and under pressure. The skills of planning, structuring, writing and editing are significant in any decision making process.

Who will benefit?

This programme is aimed at individuals required to produce reports that are well structured, flow logically and look professional for maximum impact.

Course objectives

By the end of the course, delegates will be able to get:

• Plan and prepare through key stages in order to produce quality material
• Ensure reports are clear and concise to achieve their intended objectives
• Structure the report in a logical way to aid reading and understanding
• Develop a persuasive writing style that will influence the reader positively
• Using statistics and data to maximum effect
• Critically review and edit material to enhance impact

Course content

Essential planning and preparation

Defining and understanding the purpose and objectives
Assimilating and researching helpful material
The barriers to communication for the writer and reader

Effective writing style

Increasing readability using the ABC writing technique
Looking at punctuation, spelling and grammar
Developing a persuasive writing style to influence the reader
Reviewing the material
Utilising proof reading techniques to check clarity and accuracy
Using report layout and Format to enhance understanding

Creating the structure

Establishing terms of reference and appropriate language
Recognising the needs of the reader
•Organising information in a logical way to create ‘flow’
Incorporating diagrams, statistics and tables

Putting it into Practise

Assimilating material and information for a report
Creating a convincing structure
Writing the report using appropriate techniques
Receiving constructive feedback

Course features

The training is highly participative. It consists of a blend of informal lecture, discussion, syndicate group work and individual exercises. During the training, participants will also work on producing a short piece of writing on a selected topic, thus allowing them to practise and implement the skills learnt on the course.