REPORT TITLE
I.
The first
sub-topic
A. First supporting information for the sub-topic
1. Detail of the information
2. Detail of the information
B. Second supporting information for the sub-topic
1. Detail of the information
2. Detail of the information
II. The second sub-topic
A. First supporting information for the sub-topic
1. Detail of the information
2. Detail of the information
B. Second supporting information for the sub-topic
1. Detail of the information
2. Detail of the information
III. The third sub-topic
A. First supporting information for the sub-topic
1. Detail of the information
2. Detail of the information
B. Second supporting information for the sub-topic
1. Detail of the information
2. Detail of the information
First paragraph. All paragraphs in the body of the report are indented and double-spaced.
Additional paragraphs.
First reference. The text begins at the left margin of the
paper. Lines are double-spaced. When the entry is longer than one line, the
second line is automatically indented.
Additional references.
Checklist
1 The outline
q The introduction states the main topic or idea of the outline, and the conclusion summarizes it.
q Each sub-topic describes the main idea for a paragraph.
q Supporting information and details for a sub-topic are listed under the sub-topic, with each piece of information listed separately.
q When supporting information is listed under a sub-topic, there are at least two pieces of information listed. If there is only one piece of information to support a sub-topic, the information is included in the sub-topic.
2 The paper
q The paper follows the organization of the outline.
q Each paragraph in the paper matches a sub-topic in the outline, and presents the information and details listed under the sub-topic.
q Each paragraph includes a topic sentence that summarizes the main idea of the paragraph.
q Every sentence begins with a capital letter.
q Every sentence ends with a period, question mark, or exclamation mark.
q All words are spelled correctly.
q There are no missing words.
3 Works cited
q Every source has a specific reference in the paper. Include only the sources that are mentioned in the paper.
q Each entry follows the correct format for the type of reference.
q Entries are listed in alphabetical order, according to the author’s last name.
Tips for Writing Your Report
1 Create a schedule
q Identify the tasks you need to do.
q Arrange the tasks in the order you’ll need to do them.
q Estimate how long each task will take. Be sure to allow enough time for editing and making changes.
q Identify the date the report is due, and then set a schedule showing what work you’ll need to do each day in order to have your report ready on time.
2 Add interest
q Use graphs and charts to illustrate an idea.
q Add a picture, photo, or drawing.
q Include a map.
q Find a quotation and use it to make your point.
3 Make every word count
q Choose words your reader will understand. Remember that you want to communicate your ideas to the person reading your paper.
q Avoid clichés.
q Use a thesaurus to replace overused words and find new ways to express your ideas.