11.09 Findings and discussion

The report proper develops the theme, giving details of the methods used and the observations or findings, and commenting on their significance. The ideas should follow logically and smoothly from beginning to end. Any non-essential material that might interfere with the flow of ideas should be put in a footnote, endnote or appendix, with a reference number referring to it at an appropriate place in the text. A footnote should not extend over more than half a page. If it is too long, it belongs in an endnote or an appendix (see Chapter 9 Reference Matter).

Arrange the body of the report in a logical manner, using headings and subheadings to separate the text into major divisions and the divisions into sections (see 11.16 Headings). To increase readability, break up solid text with graphic elements and lists. Use short, easily read lists to clarify information, and tables, graphs and illustrations to help readers understand it.

11.13 References

A report that is the culmination of a study will probably contain endnotes or footnotes and a bibliography. A serious yet common failing of writers of reports is inaccuracy, especially in quotations and references. A quotation should correspond exactly to the original. (For omissions and changes, see 8.09 Omissions and 8.10 Insertions, alterations and parentheses) If a quotation is not exact or is attributed to the wrong author, or if the date, volume number or page number of the reference is wrong, a reader who needs to refer to the source will waste time and lose patience. It is therefore wise to check all references both before and after they are inserted into the report.

A bibliography lists the works most often consulted, as well as those likely to be of particular interest to the reader, even if not referred to in the text. See Chapter 9 Reference Matter for detailed information on footnotes, endnotes and the various ways of listing bibliographic entries.

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