3. Method

Despite the different purposes referred to above, common questions can be used in the preparation of any report, and they form a good basis for a methodology of report writing:

1. What has the future reader asked to be told about?
2. What is the situation in which the report is set?
3. What is the starting point for the investigation behind the report, and for any changes argued in the report?
4. How will the report be judged? Will the reader be looking for general ideas for future investigation, clear avenues for development, or cut and dried, fully costed plans?
5. How can the information needed for the report be found and worked on? Analysis should yield answers that can be set alongside each other and against external data, for comparison and selection of the best options.
6. How do I ensure a favourable reception?
7. How much time do I have for the preparation of the report, and what is the word length the reader will accept?
8. How do I know that I am correct?

Notice that the questions could well prompt a preliminary report and discussion which then lead to a better main investigation and final report. Certainly, several of them may well send the investigator back to those who asked for the report, to seek clarification.