Describe the structure of a formal business report.
How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.
1 · Define a report. A report is an organised, factual document that helps a reader make a decision.
2 · Mention the types. Informal and formal; informational and analytical; routine and special.
3 · Preliminary parts.
Title page
Contents
Executive summary
4 · Main body.
Introduction with terms of reference
Method (procedure)
Findings under headings, with tables
5 · Ending parts.
Conclusions: what the findings mean
Recommendations: what to do
Appendices and references
6 · Qualities. Accurate, objective, clear, well organised, timely, signed and dated.
7 · Sri Lankan example. A branch report finding that 9 of 12 staff (75%) were late because of a bus timetable, recommending a later shift.
Scoring tip: Present the structure as a numbered list with one line on each part, then add the qualities. A small sample heading layout earns extra marks.
