1. Guidance for Your Research Project
Report Writing
Guidance for Your Research Project

2. A recommended format Title page Abstract Table of contents
Introduction
Literature Survey
Methodology
Results & Discussion
Conclusions
Recommendations for further work
Appendices
References/ bibliography

3. Title page Title Image Clear title appropriate to purpose of report
Make it attractive but
Avoid unnecessary decoration
Only use an image if it
is relevant
adds to the project
Title
Image
(Optional)
Author
Supervisor
Date

4. Abstract
The purpose of the abstract is to provide those with little time the opportunity to quickly grasp the main points
Should be a miniature of the main report with
Aims
Methodology
Results/Conclusion
Must only consider points contained in the report
Make it short – ½ page maximum

5. in Word to build Contents
Table of Contents
Contents
Page
1 Introduction 1
1.1 Background 1
1.2 Aims 1
1.3 Objectives 2
Literature Search 3
3 Materials and Methods 4
4 Etc.
Decide on appropriate level of headings & sub-headings
Use “Insert” function
in Word to build Contents

6. Introduction Why Undertake the research? Set the scene
Include aims and/or objectives
What hypothesis are you testing?
State value of the report
How is the report structured?
Keep it brief

7. Literature review
A summary of previous research as reported in books, journals and other media
Critical summary of current and recent research
What is the current state of knowledge?
What are the strengths & weaknesses of existing research?
Where does your project fit in?
Should also provide an account of the theoretical background to the project

8. Methodology
How, when, where, (why?) did you collect the data/ information, e.g.
Laboratory testing
Survey
Literature search
You should try to give clear reasons for your choice of methodolgy
This may include choice of equipment

9. Results & Discussion The bulk of the report.
Provide a logical flow, for example;
3. Results and Discussion
3.1 Analytical Results
3.1.1 Protein
3.1.2 Ash
3.1.3 Moisture
3.1.4 Fat
3.2 Preference testing
3.3 Statistical analysis

10. Results & Discussion
Use a “Storyboard” for preparation and logical structure
Allocate word count at planning stage; most important section gets largest share
Present your information, but also analyse it;
give possible explanations for your findings
How do your findings relate to theory?

11. Recommendations & Conclusions
Draws your findings together
Refer to your aims and objectives when writing this section (i.e. aims and objectives considered as questions, conclusion the answer)
Recommendations:
Now that all important issues have been considered, what do you think should happen now?

12. Appendices
Contains essential information but could be a distraction to the reader, e.g. copy of questionnaire used
Allows the reader to decide if they should refer to this information

13. References Difference between reference and bibliography?
References have been directly used and cited in the body of the text
Bibliography includes sources that have been consulted, but have not been directly used or cited – often a guide to further reading
Your report should contain a list of references

14. References/ Bibliography
A full list – in proper format should be provided – see DISSC website (Below)
Use the Harvard System unless your supervisor says otherwise
Information on referencing at

15. General Points Headings & numbering Use third person
Never introduce new material in conclusion
ABC; Accurate, brief, concise
Proof read (use English spellchecker)
Editing and printing takes time
Computer failure not an excuse for late submission

16. General Points Adopt a consistent style. Write in the third person.
Label all diagrams, photographs, data presentation & refer to them in the text!
Source all photographs etc. And so avoid accusation of plagiarism
Word process, 1.5 or double line spacing
Adequate margins all round
Min. 3.2 cm all round.