Tips for Writing Effective Long Reports

Bill Carmody discusses effective strategies for writing long reports. Key points include understanding your audience, clarifying the report's desired outcomes, and writing the executive summary last. He emphasizes the importance of including alternative viewpoints, making clear recommendations, and proofreading to maintain credibility. Finally, he advises sharing the report with key influencers before broad distribution to ensure a balanced and well-received document.

Why is it important to know your audience when writing a report?

• To ensure the report is entertaining

• To make the report longer

• To write a report that is useful to them

• To avoid using technical language

What is the benefit of writing the executive summary last?

• It makes the report look professional

• It ensures all key points are included

• It allows for more creativity

• It saves time

Why should alternative viewpoints be included in a report?

• To confuse the reader

• To make the report longer

• To avoid criticism

• To ensure a balanced perspective

What is the impact of typos and poor grammar in a report?

• They negatively affect the report's perceived value

• They enhance the report's credibility

• They make the report more interesting

• They have no impact

Why should a report be shared with key influencers before broad distribution?

• To make it more entertaining

• To increase the report's length

• To gather feedback and ensure balance

• To get their approval