This document discusses different types of short, informal reports including incident reports, investigative reports, trip reports, feasibility reports, meeting minutes, and progress reports. It provides examples of each type of report and outlines the typical structure and content, which usually includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. The document also provides general tips for writing short, informal reports such as using a straightforward style and proofreading to ensure the report is well-packaged and presentable for the intended audience.

1. Short, Informal Reports
Karen O’Hara
November 2012

2. Short, Informal Reports

3. Types of Informal Reports
 Incident
 Investigative
 Trip
 Feasibility
 Meeting minutes
 Progress
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4. General Remarks
• Report genres vary, but they should always include an
introduction, middle, and conclusion.
• Front & back matter enhance reports, making them
more usable for a variety of audiences. Very short
reports may not require front & back matter.

5. Incident Report
• Often uses a template
• Will ask for details that may be used in internal or legal
proceedings
• Requiredto fill out report promptly so details aren’t
forgotten

6. Investigative Report
Air France Flight 447
• CBS News Video
• Report

7. Meeting Minutes
Typically includes attendance roster, outline of agenda
with filled-in notes, any action items, and plans for next
meeting

8. Progress Reports (Info about past/present/future)
Introduction
Summary of Activities
Results of Activities
Future Activities
(Expenses)
Conclusion

9. Sample
Daughter to father:
college progress to date

10. Progress Reports
• Plan by considering purpose, audience, etc.
– Assume other readers will see the report one day
• Package introduction, body, & conclusion.
– Use plain style & simple design; straightforward
– Design may use a template; supporting graphics OK
• Perfect by carefully reviewing, editing, &
proofreading.
– Think of clients, annual reviews, lawyers/auditors…

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The End