Introduction
Writing a research report is a critical step in sharing your findings with the world. Whether you're a student, academic, or professional, a well-structured report ensures your work is understood, valued, and actionable.
(toc) #title=(Table of content)
By the end, you’ll know how to craft a compelling research report that meets academic standards or engages a general audience.
What Is a Research Report?
A research report documents your study’s purpose, methods, findings, and implications. It can be:
Quantitative – Data-driven, statistical analysis (e.g., surveys).
Qualitative – Narrative-based, exploratory (e.g., interviews, case studies).
Non-academic (technical report) – Simplified for policymakers, NGOs, or businesses.
Why Is Documentation Important?
Structure of a Research Report
1. Title Page
Title (15-20 words) – Clear, concise, and informative.
Quantitative: "A Survey of Child Labourers in Metro Cities"
Qualitative: "My Dream House: Impact Evaluation of Rural Housing Solutions"
Non-academic: "Voices of Invisible Children: Perceptions of Rescued Child Workers"
Author(s), institution, date, sponsor logos (if applicable).
2. Abstract (150-300 words)
Summarize:
Research problem
Methodology
Key findings
Implications
Example (Quantitative):
*"This study examines school dropout rates among child laborers using survey data (N=105). Findings reveal 68% work full-time, limiting education access. Recommendations include policy reforms for child protection."*
3. Table of Contents
Chapters, sections, page numbers.
Lists of tables, figures, and appendices.
Example:
| Chapter | Title | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction | 1-10 |
| 2 | Literature Review | 11-25 |
4. Introduction
Quantitative: Third-person, present tense.
Research problem, rationale, hypothesis, gaps in literature.
Qualitative: First-person allowed (more narrative).
Personal interest, research questions, methodology overview.
5. Literature Review
Summarizes existing research.
Identifies gaps your study addresses.
Tip: Be critical, not just descriptive.
6. Methodology
Quantitative:
Sample selection, data collection tools (e.g., surveys), statistical methods.
Qualitative:
Research design (e.g., case studies, interviews), ethical considerations.
7. Results
Present findings objectively.
Use tables, graphs, quotes (for qualitative).
Avoid interpretation (save for Discussion).
8. Discussion
Interpret results.
Compare with prior studies.
Address limitations.
9. Conclusion & Recommendations
Summarize key insights.
Suggest policy/practical actions.
Propose future research.
Differences Between Report Types
| Section | Quantitative | Qualitative | Non-Academic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tone | Formal, third-person | Flexible, first-person allowed | Simple, jargon-free |
| Structure | Rigid (IMRaD) | Creative (e.g., storytelling) | Executive summary first |
| Audience | Academics, researchers | Academics, social scientists | NGOs, policymakers |
Tips for Effective Report Writing
FAQ
1. How long should a research report be?
Academic: 30-100+ pages (depends on study).
Non-academic: 10-30 pages (concise).
2. Can I use "I" in a qualitative report?
Yes! First-person is acceptable in qualitative and action research.
3. What’s the most common mistake in report writing?
Poor structure – Ensure logical flow (problem → methods → results → discussion).
Conclusion
A well-written research report bridges the gap between data and action. Whether for academia or fieldwork, clarity, precision, and audience-awareness are key.
