Report Template
There are some variations in the structure of reports, especially across different
subjects. Below you will find two templates. The first covers the most common
structures in Science, Engineering and Technology subjects and the second is popular
in Business and Social Sciences. However, always check in your module guide on
Canvas or ask your tutor to make sure this is the structure you need. We have
included some short examples of academic writing for reports. For more detailed
examples, click here and select the relevant subject.
Similarities between all reports
All reports need references within your text and a full reference list at the end and
most will include tables, figures or images. One of the things that makes a report
different to an essay is that your information is divided up into sections and sub-
sections using titles and numbers.
Most reports need a contents page which shows the organisation of the report. This
should list all sections and subsections and use numbering for the sections and the
pages. It should also list the figures, tables and images you have included. Have a
look at this one from an Events student who was asked to write a report on the
differences between types of local events across the North West of England. Also
check in your module guide for specific guidance:
Contents
1. Introduction 4
1.1 Structure of the report 4
2. Background 5
2.1 Definition of local versus national events 5
2.2 Key Characteristics of a local events in the North West 7
2.3 Comparison between events in Liverpool and Manchester 9
3. Findings 11
3.1 Findings from focus groups 11
3.2 Findings from interviews 12
4.Discussion 14
5.Conclusion 15
5.1Recommendations 15
6.Reference List 16
7.Appendices 17
7.1 Table 1: Industry Sectors
7.2 Table 2: Event comparison