- Characteristics of a Good Report
- Importance Features of a Good Report
- Essential Qualities of a Good Report
We know that a report is a written document that shows information in an organized way using a specific format and presentation. The audience and objective are specific for a report.
So, writing a qualitative report may be a hard nut to crack. But not for those who know the essential characteristics of a good report. Because it helps to judge them what the qualities are present in their report.
A good report contains all the features which it should have. All the qualities or characteristics of a good report should be ideally known by a good reporter so that his/her report becomes a good one.
1. Precision
In a good report, the report writer is very clear about the exact and definite purpose of writing the report. His investigation, analysis, recommendations and others are directed by this central purpose.
2. Accuracy of Facts
Information contained in a report must be based on accurate facts.
Since decisions are taken based on report information, any inaccurate information or statistics will lead to a wrong decision. It will hamper to ensure the achievement of the organizational goal.
3. Relevancy
The facts presented in a report should not be only accurate but also be relevant. Irrelevant facts make a report confusing and likely to be misleading to make a proper decision.
4. Reader-Orientation
While drafting any report, it is necessary to keep in mind about the person who is going to read it. That's why a good report is always reader oriented.
Reader's knowledge and level of understanding should be considered by the writer of the report. Well, reader-oriented information qualifies a report to be a good one.
5. Simple Language
Simplicity is the best for anything. It is just another essential feature of a good report. A good report is written in simple language avoiding vague and unclear words.
The language of the report should not be influenced by the writer's emotion or goal. The message of a good report should be self-explanatory.
A good reporter should be careful of using simple sentences instead of using a complex sentence in the narration of facts.
A good report should be concise but it does not mean that a report can never be long.
7. Grammatical Accuracy
A good report is free from errors. Any faulty construction of a sentence may make its meaning different to the reader's mind. And sometimes it may become confusing or ambiguous.
Recommendation on report usually make effect on the reader mind.
A reporter should try to use universal and proven truth in his report rather than using the concept which is not yet established or completed.
9. Clarity
Clarity depends on proper arrangement of facts. A good report is absolutely clear.
10. Attractive Presentation
Presentation of a report is also a factor which should be consider for a good report. A good report provides a catchy and smart look and creates attention of the reader.
The inclusion of above factors, features or characteristics, make a good report to be effective and fruitful. It also helps to achieve the report goal.