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Vii?! 9”” “PM By Ruth Friendship-Keller Have you ever written a report which didn‘t get the results you wanted? The key to writing effective reports is to make them easy to read. The characteristics of a good report are the same whether the report is long or short and no matter what the topic. The main reason a report fails is because the reader cannot get the information out of it. This could be because the report: is poorly organized lacks focus or clear objectives is too technical or has no substance lacks appeal to motivate the reader has a poor design or format is too long Organize Your Thoughts Ne Organization can be the key to a well written report. The logical flow of informa- tion in a readable style will help the audience to get the information they want from the report. The report should begin with a summary of the main message: what the render most wants to know or needs to be told. The Opening sentence can be very important for attracting attention. Beginning by stating that there is a problem paves the way for you to prove it and give the solution. Beginning with a question or a controversial _ statement will immediately provoke a reaction. than 7 Continued rm pJO H & C December. January IQS‘) 9