company report 9

© 2010 FIDM/ Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

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MODULE #8 SCREENCAST TRANSCRIPT

Writing an Effective Introduction and Conclusion for a Formal Business Report

The Introduction The introduction is the first paragraph of your report and your opportunity to make a strong first impression on the reader. An effective introduction for a formal business report is usually a short paragraph 3-7 sentences in length which includes 3 functions:

• Clearly states the topic and scope of the report – your company. • Gives an overview of the methods or frameworks used in researching and

analyzing the topic of the report – your methodology. • Expresses the purpose and reason for writing the report – your thesis.

Once read, the reader should be quite clear on the topic, scope, methodology and purpose of your report. You shouldn’t give your group’s recommendation at this point.

The Conclusion The conclusion is the last paragraph in your report and is also usually a short paragraph 3-7 sentences in length. It has 3 functions as well:

• Provides a brief summary or re-cap of the methodology of your analysis. • Restates your recommendation and links it to the purpose of the report. • Expands to the future or the public at large, closing with impact.

Make sure your conclusion makes a strong last impression on your reader. These two paragraphs, the introduction and conclusion, will effectively frame and provide context for your reader and your report. In the next module, we will add the remaining parts for your formal written report:

• Cover Page • Abstract • Table of Contents • Executive Summary

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Use Your Time Wisely Take advantage of the fact that you do not have an assignment to submit for this module. Use the time to not only craft an effective introduction and conclusion, but also to revise and integrate the feedback you received on your rough draft. Is your group recommendation section well structured and logical? Check your entire report to correct any errors or lapses in:

• MLA formats • In-text documentation • Works Cited • Individual paragraphs • Topic sentences • Supporting evidence • Insights and analysis for the information you have gathered • Grammar & mechanics • Sentence structure • Clarity, word use and punctuation.

Read your sentences aloud to yourself or for a friend to “hear” the sense, grammar and clarity of your writing.

• Are you using active voice whenever possible? • Have you avoided using first person? • Are your pronouns agreeing with antecedents? • Have used slang, clichés or colloquialisms?

I highly recommend that you have at least 3 group members proofread and critique each other’s writing. This way you will catch many errors in formatting, grammar and clarity. Like a final sketch or draft for a design proposal, 3-D model, graphic poster, garment or interior design, you are ultimately responsible for identifying any flaws, mistakes or errors before you go into production or construction. Check to make sure your report is really a masterpiece once you have framed it!