
Module 24 - Long Reports
Conclusions summarize points made in the body of the report while
Recommendations are action items that would solve or partially solve
the problem, as shown on PP 24-17. Simple recommendations need
little explanation, but more complex ones may each need a brief
paragraph of rationale. Remind students that recommendations will
also appear in the Executive Summary and that they can be in the title
and the letter of transmittal.
Choosing a long report format and style LO 24-3
The problem-solving report format described in this module—or some
version of that format—is common in business, but many other types
of long reports exist in the workplace. Their formats and style can vary
greatly according to purpose, as well as the organization and discourse community.
For instance, corporate annual reports typically are printed on glossy stock, filled with color
photos, charts, and graphs, and focused on information important to investors, such as financial
statistics. They may have dozens of pages and often are “perfect bound,” like a slick magazine or
book. Many nonprofit organizations produce annual reports that share these characteristics, but
others may choose fewer colors and pages, as well as saddle stitch or other kinds of binding.
As PP 24-18 suggests, to decide on a good long report format,
Ask PAIBOC questions.
Review other reports the organization has written.
Consult texts on report writing, experts in your
organization, or a writing consultant.
Test your draft, wherever possible, on people similar to
your audience.
Teaching Tip: While short reports are often written in memo form, long reports can
come in a wide range of styles and formats, and there is no “one size fits all.” To help
students understand the great diversity of options they may have for report formats,
locate copies of annual reports online or at a business school library. You might also
request paper copies from local companies.
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24-7