How to write a research report in English|Academic Writing

Summary

In this informative video, the presenter guides students through the process of crafting a research report, an essential component of academic research. Covering key sections such as preliminary material, body, and supplementary content, the lesson emphasizes the importance of clarity and structure. The presenter outlines vital steps, including task analysis, rough planning, thorough research, and drafting each section—introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Tips for proper formatting and adherence to guidelines are also provided, aiming to alleviate the stress often associated with research projects. This comprehensive guide empowers students to produce well-organized and effective reports.

Takeaways

• 😀 Research is essential in academia, with students often feeling stressed about it.
• 📄 A research report is the final phase of research, summarizing data collection and analysis.
• 📝 The report consists of three main sections: preliminary, body, and supplementary materials.
• 🔍 The preliminary material includes the title, table of contents, and abstract.
• 📚 The body of the report features the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• 🔗 It's important to clearly outline your methodology for replicability.
• 📊 Results should be presented without interpretation, while the discussion interprets findings in context.
• 📖 References must be properly formatted according to guidelines like APA or MLA.
• 📑 Appendices can include additional relevant information, but must be clearly labeled.
• ✅ The final step is to review the report to ensure all guidelines have been followed.

Q & A

What is a research report?

A research report is the final phase in research that presents the findings and interpretations after data collection and analysis. It summarizes significant facts necessary for understanding the conclusions drawn.

What are the three main sections of a research report?

The three main sections of a research report are the preliminary material, the body, and supplementary material.

What should be included in the preliminary material of a research report?

The preliminary material should include the title of the report, a table of contents, and an abstract or synopsis.

What is the purpose of the introduction in a research report?

The introduction outlines the purpose of the report, provides background information, and includes the thesis statement.

How should the literature review be structured?

The literature review can be structured chronologically or thematically, discussing findings from earlier to later research or outlining various themes discovered in the research.

What is the difference between the results and discussion sections?

The results section presents the findings without interpretation, while the discussion section interprets those findings and relates them to other research.

What must be included in the supplementary material?

The supplementary material must include references or bibliography, listing all sources used, and any appendices that provide additional information.

What steps should be taken before drafting a research report?

Before drafting, analyze the task, develop a rough plan, and conduct thorough research.

How important is the conclusion in a research report?

The conclusion summarizes the most significant findings and should not introduce new material. It may also suggest areas for further research.

What is a common challenge students face when writing research reports?

Many students experience stress when dealing with research in college or university, often due to the complexity and depth required in their reports.