Reports are written to specific audiences to accomplish specific goals. The type of report written should be carefully selected based on the situation and should be identified in the title and introduction. The following list briefly defines several types of reports assigned to students in the Department of Technology. More information about these and other report types can be found in many of the technical writing texts available.
Physical description reports describe the physical characteristics of a machine, a device, or some other type of object. They also explain the relationship of one part of the object to other parts so that the reader can visualize the object as a unit. Physical description reports are many times combined with process, analysis, or investigation reports.
Process reports explain how products are produced, tests are completed, or devices operate by describing the details of procedures used to perform a series of operations. Process reports may be general or detailed. General process reports are addressed to persons not directly involved in performing the process. Detailed process reports are designed to give the readers all the necessary information needed to complete the process.
Analytical reports critically examine one or more items, activities, or options. They are structured around an analysis of component parts or other common basis for comparison between options. This type of report usually results in conclusions and recommendations.
Examination reports are used to report or record data obtained from an examination of an item or conditions. Examination reports differ from one another in subject matter and length. Some are similar to analytical reports but are less complicated because the information is obtained from personal observations. Examination reports are logically organized records investigating topics such as accidents or disasters. They are usually prepared for people knowledgeable about the subject and not for the general reader.
Laboratory reports record and communicate the procedures and results of laboratory activities. Equipment, procedures, findings, and conclusions are clearly presented at a level appropriate for readers with some expertise in the subject. They are sometimes presented in laboratory notebooks using neatly handwritten text and charts.
Literature reviews are logically organized summaries of the literature on a given subject. It is important that they are correctly documented and accurately represent the scope and balance of the available literature. Conclusions drawn reflect the collection as a whole and should appropriately reflect various points of view. Overuse of direct quotations should be avoided.
Design portfolios are organized presentations of preliminary and final designs of items such as mechanisms, products, and works of art. When part of an educational activity, they may also include an analysis of the problem, review of related designs, evaluation, and other information. The presentation may be in the form of notes, sketches, and presentation illustrations.