Student’s Industrial Training Report Writing At a Glance

Report writing is an essential skill for professionals.

A report aims to inform, as clearly and succinctly as possible.

Below we give some general guidelines. A report is similar to an essay in that both need:

1. formal style
2. introduction, body and conclusion

·                     analytical thinking 

·                     careful proof-reading and neat presentation

A report differs from an essay in that a report:

·                     presents information, not an argument

·                     is meant to be scanned quickly by the reader

·                     uses numbered headings and sub-headings

·                     uses short, concise paragraphs and dot-points where applicable

·                     uses graphics wherever possible (tables, graphs, illustrations)

·                     may need an abstract (sometimes called an executive summary)

·                     does not always need references and bibliography

·                     is often followed by recommendations and/or appendices

Presentation and style are important. First impressions count, so consider these simple tips:

·                     use plenty of white space

·                     ensure the separate parts of your report stand out clearly

·                     use subheadings

·                     allow generous spacing between the elements of your report

·                     use dot points/ numbers/ letters to articulate these elements

·                     use tables and figures (graphs, illustrations, maps etc) for  clarification.

·                     number each page

·                     use consistent and appropriate formatting

·                     use formal language

Avoid these:

·                     the inclusion of careless, inaccurate, or conflicting data

·                     the inclusion of outdated or irrelevant data

·                     facts and opinions that are not separated

·                     unsupported conclusions and recommendations

·                     careless presentation and proof-reading

·                     too much emphasis on appearance and not enough on content.

A report aims to inform, as clearly and succinctly as possible. It should be easy to read, and professional in its presentation. See student’s IT report below.

Report Layout

Every report should be designed to permit the reader to quickly assess it for points of interest and direct attention to the detailed discussions on these aspects.

In the case of industrial training reports, a suggested arrangement is as follows:

Title page

Report summary or abstract clearly stating the number of days  of employment

Acknowledgments

Table of contents

Introduction

Body of report

Conclusion

References

Appendices