Overview of types of short reports written in the workplace

1. Short, Informal Reports
Karen O’Hara
November 2012

2. Short, Informal Reports

3. Types of Informal Reports
 Incident
 Investigative
 Trip
 Feasibility
 Meeting minutes
 Progress
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4. General Remarks
• Report genres vary, but they should always include an
introduction, middle, and conclusion.
• Front & back matter enhance reports, making them
more usable for a variety of audiences. Very short
reports may not require front & back matter.

5. Incident Report
• Often uses a template
• Will ask for details that may be used in internal or legal
proceedings
• Requiredto fill out report promptly so details aren’t
forgotten

6. Investigative Report
Air France Flight 447
• CBS News Video
• Report

7. Meeting Minutes
Typically includes attendance roster, outline of agenda
with filled-in notes, any action items, and plans for next
meeting

8. Progress Reports (Info about past/present/future)
Introduction
Summary of Activities
Results of Activities
Future Activities
(Expenses)
Conclusion

9. Sample
Daughter to father:
college progress to date

10. Progress Reports
• Plan by considering purpose, audience, etc.
– Assume other readers will see the report one day
• Package introduction, body, & conclusion.
– Use plain style & simple design; straightforward
– Design may use a template; supporting graphics OK
• Perfect by carefully reviewing, editing, &
proofreading.
– Think of clients, annual reviews, lawyers/auditors…

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The End