1. Formal Reports

2. Contents cover title page letter or memo of transmittal
table of contents
list of illustrations
executive summary or abstract
introduction
main body
appendix
bibliography
index

3. Cover
title of report
professional looking paper

4. Title Page title – be specific about contents It may also contain
name of writer(s)
name of intended audience
date of completion
name and logo of writer’s company

5. Letter or Memo of Transmittal
A type of “cover letter” which
refers to title of project and why it was done
comments about content, esp. what may interest the reader
acknowledges any help received
closes by offering to provide further assistance

6. Table of Contents items match headings in report
subheadings used only for very long reports

7. List of Illustrations directs reader to graphics in report
includes table or figure number
includes name of illustration
includes page number
Figure Sales by Month 13
Table 1 Price Comparison 15

8. Executive Summary or Abstract
Both give a brief summary of what is in the report. They are written last and read first. Abstracts tend to be for academic or professional readers and are usually one paragraph. Executive Summaries used more for business and technical writing. They may have a particular ‘spin’ for promotional purposes.

9. Introduction
The introduction says “Here’s what you’re going to be reading about and why.”
It may include
background (situation leading to the report)
purpose (writer’s outcome)
significance (why is it important)
scope (range of the study)
arrangement (how the report is put together)
acknowlegements (who funded or contributed)

10. Body
content and length will vary
use appropriate headings

11. Appendix contains material of interest but not vital
can include “back-up” data
should not contain graphics that are not optional

12. Index
The index is like the table of contents except it is at the back and is organized alphabetically instead of sequentially.