how to write a financial report essay

How to Write a Great Financial Report? Tips and Best Practices

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To make informed financial decisions in your company, you first have to be, well, informed.

Understanding the financial activity of your company sets the foundation for identifying good business opportunities and making the right decisions to ensure future growth.

By tracking, organizing, and analyzing financial performances, you will have a clearer picture of where the money is going and where it’s coming from. No wonder finance is one of the most monitored and reported operations, according to Databox’s State of Business Reporting .

To stay on top of numbers, companies use financial reports.

Financial reports are formal documents that capture all the significant financial activities within a business in a specific period.

While these reports are extremely useful for you and your key stakeholders, you won’t be the only one reaping the fruits. Financial statements are also examined by potential investors and banks since they provide them with enough insight to determine whether they want to invest in your business.

In this article, we are going to walk you through what financial reports are, why they are significant and show you a step-by-step guide that will take your financial reports and business reporting as a whole, to the next level.

What Is a Financial Report?

What is the purpose of financial reporting, what are the types of financial reporting, how to write a financial report, finance report examples.

• Improve Financial Reporting with Databox

Financial reports are official company documents that showcase all the financial activities and performances of your business over a specific period. Usually, they are created on a quarterly or yearly basis.

Every business is legally obliged to use financial reporting to display its current financial status and organize financial data.

The documents are available for public view which means that potential banks and investors will most likely analyze them before they decide to work with you and invest in your business.

They are also important for tracking future profitability estimates, business growth, and overall financial health.

At bottom, financial reports provide you with insight into how much money you have, how much did you spend, and where it is coming from. Based on the data within the report, you can make informed business decisions and create plans for future spending.

The key things a financial report should include are:

• Cash flow data
• Asset and liability evaluation
• Shareholder equity analysis
• Profitability measurements

Related : Quarterly Business Review: How to Write One and How to Present It Successfully

Financial reports are used to track, analyze, and display your company’s cash flow .

Understanding how your business is performing from a financial standpoint can seem like an impossible task without these reports.

However, financial reports aren’t used only because they are practical; you are legally required to include them.

Here are some of the main ways in which financial reports can help your business:

Communicate essential data

Monitors income and expenses, supports financial analysis and decision-making.

• Simplify your taxes

Having an insight into the current financial situation of your business is important to each high-ranking member of the company (stakeholders, executives, investors, and partners).

You will use this financial data to create budget plans and monitor the company’s overall performance. When you establish an open communication and transparency policy within your business, you are more likely to attract new investors and enhance funding.

The information communicated in financial statements is what investors rely on when they are assessing risks, profitability, and future returns.

One way to gain the trust of investors is to showcase how your financial performance stacks up against your peers. For example, by joining this benchmark group , you can better understand your gross profit margin performance and see how metrics like income, gross profit, net income, net operating increase, etc compare against businesses like yours.

For example, you can discover that the median gross profit a month for B2B, B2C, SaaS and eCommerce is 73.79K . If you perform better than the median, this might be a good incentive for your investors to increase your funding.

*Important note: Databox Benchmark Groups show median values. The median is calculated by taking the “middle” value, the value for which half of the observations are larger and half are smaller. The average is calculated by adding up all of the individual values and dividing this total by the number of observations. While both are measures of central tendency, when there is a possibility of extreme values, the median is generally the better measure to use.

Benchmark Your Performance Against Hundreds of Companies Just Like Yours

Viewing benchmark data can be enlightening, but seeing where your company’s efforts rank against those benchmarks can be game-changing. 

Browse Databox’s open Benchmark Groups and join ones relevant to your business to get free and instant performance benchmarks. 

Financial reporting involves tracking incomes and expenses for a specific time period. To establish efficient debt management and budget allocation, you will need an insight into the most important spending areas.

By tracking income and expenses , you will also understand current liabilities and assets. Analyzing financial documentation will provide you with a bigger picture regarding the key metrics such as debt-to-asset ratios that investors use to calculate potential profitability.

All of this is information is crucial for staying ahead of your competitors.

Related : How to Write a Great Business Expense Report: A Step-By-Step Guide with Examples

The performance analysis in financial reports is what you rely on to make better business decisions.

Considering the different data that financial reports include, you can check out real-time information regarding historical performances, key spending areas, and use them to create accurate financial forecasts.

Implementing detailed financial analysis and using developed data models can help any business better evaluate current activities and make future business growth decisions.

You will be able to recognize trends, potential problems, and stay on top of your financial performances in real-time. This sets the foundation for quick and accurate economic decisions.

The main purpose of financial reports is to make sure your business is in compliance with the law and regulations of government agencies.

Regulatory institutions examine every document that evaluates the financial activities of your company. This is why making accurate financial documentation is crucial for the well-being of your business.

Aside from accuracy, you will also have to follow certain deadlines that these institutions set. This sometimes causes pressure in accounting departments to create complex financial reports quickly and accurately, which is why regular bookkeeping is immensely important.

In the US, private and public companies have to be compliant with the GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles), while international companies mostly report under the IRFS (International Reporting Financial Standards).

Both of these organizations provide some standard guidelines but there are a few differences you will have to pay attention to when creating your financial statements.

Simplify your taxes  

No matter how big or small your business is, doing taxes can be a stressful task.

By creating accurate financial reports, you can make tax calculation a lot easier since you will minimize any chances of error and save time by including all financial data in one document.

Not only that, since financial reports are a legal requirement, the IRS uses them to evaluate the tax income of each individual company. 

While financial reports all have the same goal, there are a few different types that you should know about.

This isn’t only a matter of compliance or best practice, these reports are key for understanding the different segments of cash flow.

Here are the main types of financial reporting:

Balance Sheet

Cash flow statement, income statement, shareholder equity statement.

A balance sheet is a financial statement that tracks the total amount of assets, liabilities, and shareholder equities within your company. They also provide you with a real-time evaluation of asset liquidity and debt coverage.

Most companies create balance sheets on a quarterly basis and include the data from each quarter in the annual report.

When creating a balance sheet, there is an asset page (includes available cash, equipment value, inventory value, etc.) and a liability page (includes accounts payable, credit card balances, bank loans, etc.) that you need to fulfill.

Once you total these assets and liabilities, you will subtract liabilities from the assets. The amount you get is what is called ‘owner’s equity’.

This is a financial statement that records all the different cash flow activities in the company.

Cash flow statements track cash generated and cash spent amounts in a specific time period. This report is crucial for measuring whether companies generate enough cash to cover their debts. Also, it provides insight into fund operations, investments, and the overall activities that are generating revenue.

This statement is helpful for investors since they can use it to determine whether your business presents a good investment opportunity .

While balance sheets incorporate certain calculations to determine financial values, cash flow statements are consisted of three main elements:

• Operational activities – inventories, wages, tax income, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and cash receipts
• Investment activities – investment earnings use, investment earnings generation, asset sales, issued loans, payments from mergers
• Financing activities – payable dividends, debt payments, debt issuance, cash from investors, and stock repurchases

The income statement records the company’s expenses, revenue, and net loss/income over a specific time period.

Balance sheets focus on the current activities and performances while income sheets track them over a longer period. Businesses tend to track income statements each quarter to gain better insight into the different financial processes that occur.

Income statements include profits and losses , which is why they are also called P&L statements (Profits & Losses).

The main elements included on the income statement are:

• Operating revenue – financial data regarding sales of products or services
• Net and gross revenue – includes the total sales revenue and remaining revenue (after the cost subtraction)
• Primary expenses – these include general costs, administrative costs, depreciation and selling, and COGS (cost of goods sold)
• Secondary expenses – capital loss, asset loss, debt interest, and loan interest
• Nonoperating revenue – this is revenue that comes from accrued interest, it includes investment returns, capital gains, and royalty payments

Even though shareholder’s equity is usually included on the balance sheet, larger companies tend to report these activities on a separate statement.

This statement tracks the amount of money key stakeholders invest in the business. The investments most commonly include company stocks and securities. After dividends are released to stockholders, the retained earnings in the company change.

Stakeholder equity statement includes these key components:

• Retained earnings after dividends and losses have been subtracted
• Common/preferred stock sales
• Purchased treasury stock
• Generated income (including the income that comes from unrealized capital gains)

Pro Tip: How to Stay on Top of the Financial Health of Your Business

Do you own and manage a small business? Then you know how much of a struggle it can be to stay on top of the financial health of your business on a daily basis. Now you can pull data from QuickBooks and HubSpot’s CRM to track your key business metrics in one convenient dashboard, including:

• Open deals and deal amounts by pipeline stage. Get sales data directly from your HubSpot CRM and track deals, deal amounts, deal stages, and dates from your sales pipeline. 
• Key financial data. Track gross profit margin, open invoices by amount and by customer, paid invoices, expenses, and income from QuickBooks.

Now you can benefit from the experience of our HubSpot CRM and QuickBooks experts, who have put together a plug-and-play Databox template that helps you monitor and analyze your key financial metrics. It’s simple to implement and start using, and best of all, it’s free!

You can easily set it up in just a few clicks – no coding required.

To set up the dashboard, follow these 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Get the template 

Step 2: Connect your HubSpot and Quickbooks accounts with Databox. 

Step 3: Watch your dashboard populate in seconds.

Financial reports help you understand your company’s financial performance, attract potential investors, and are legally required. This is why you have to make sure that they are as accurate as possible.

You want your financial reports to be comprehensive, understandable, and precise.

Even though creating a good financial report can be very complex, we are going to show you a step-by-step guide that will make the whole process much easier.

Follow these steps to create a great financial report:

Step 1 – Make a Sales Forecast

Step 2 – create a budget for expenses, step 3 – create a cash flow statement, step 4 – estimate net profit, step 5 – manage assets and liabilities, step 6 – find the breakeven point.

When making a sales forecast, the first thing you should do is create a spreadsheet that includes your sales performance from the last three years.

Use a specific section for each line of sales and organize columns for each month of year one. For years two and three, organize columns on a quarterly basis.

Create three different blocks – one for pricing, one for unit sales, and the third one for multiplying units by unit cost (to calculate the cost of sales).

Cost of sales is important because it helps you calculate a precise gross margin.

Once you do the math, you can make an accurate sales forecast that is backed up by historic financial data.

PRO TIP: If you are using HubSpot CRM to visualize your sales data, watch the video below to learn how to set up and track your HubSpot CRM data in order to more accurately forecast your sales this month, quarter, and beyond.

Once you have made a sales forecast, you will want to calculate how much it will cost you.

When creating an expense budget, you should include both fixed costs (rent, payroll, etc.) and variable costs (marketing and promotional expenses). Costs such as interest and taxes can’t be completely accurate, so you are going to have to make rough estimates.

For taxes, you can multiply the estimated debt balance by your estimated tax percentage rate.

To estimate interest, multiply your estimated debt balance by an estimated interest rate.

We already mentioned what cash flow statements are and why they are so important for your business. They are typically created based on the sales forecast, balance sheet components, and other estimates.

To make cash flow estimates, companies should use historical financial statements. If your business is relatively new, you should project cash flow statements by breaking them down into 12 months.

Your way of invoicing is also linked to cash flow estimates.

For example, if a customer has the right to pay for your services after 30 days, the cash flow statement will show that you only collected 80% of your invoices within the month (while you need 100% to cover the expenses).

To estimate net profit, you should use the numbers from your sales forecast, expense estimates, and cash flow statement.

You can calculate the net profit by subtracting expenses, interests, and taxes from the gross margin .

This step is extremely important since it serves as a profit and loss statement that helps you create a detailed business forecast for the next three years.

In order to estimate your business’s net worth at the end of a fiscal year, you have to be able to manage assets and liabilities that won’t be shown in the profits and loss statement.

Come up with a rough estimate of how much money you expect to have on hand each month and include accounts receivable, inventory, land, and equipment.

After that, calculate liabilities, debts from outstanding loans, and accounts payable.

You know that you have found a breakeven point if your business expenses are in line with the sales volume.

The three-year income estimation should help you acquire this analysis. In viable businesses, the total revenue should exceed total expenses.

For potential investors, this kind of information is crucial since they want to be reassured that they are investing in a company with steady growth.

Nowadays, most companies use different tools and templates to make their reporting process easier. Using dashboards can help you track the metrics you obtain from the financial management tools that your business integrates.

Databox offers pre-built financial templates that can help you track the most important financial metrics in one place.

With our comprehensive dashboards, you can follow the most significant numbers and later include them in your financial report, making the whole process less time-consuming.

We understand that each business is different, which is why you can also customize the reports in any way you deem fit and at any time.

Here are some of our most popular financial reports that you can try out:

• Quickbooks Profit and Loss Overview Dashboard

Xero Profitability Overview Dashboard

Stripe (mrr & churn) dashboard, profitwell revenue trends dashboard, paypal (account overview) dashboard, quickbooks profit and loss overview dashboard.

To gain valuable insight into the sales and expenses that incur in your business, you can use the QuickBooks Profit and Loss Overview Dashboard .

Make sure you are staying on top of your numbers by tracking monthly, quarterly, and yearly income. Also, this report will help you figure out how profitable your company is and which areas may need to be fixed.

Some of the key metrics you can follow are net profit, income by month, expenses by month, and profit margin.

Xero is one of the most popular accounting systems that companies use to manage their financial positions. However, it can sometimes be hard to organize the large amount of data this tool provides.

This is where the Xero Profitability Overview Dashboard can come in handy. This customizable template will provide you with a comprehensive view of the sales and expenses that go into your Xero system.

Once the time comes for creating a financial report, you can simply integrate the data you gathered in this dashboard.

The key metrics it includes are net profit, income by month, expenses by month, profits, losses, gross profit, and other income.

Use the Stripe Dashboard to monitor your churn rate and track MRR growth in real-time. Also, you can check how many customers your business currently has at any given time.

Once you connect your Stripe account to this template, you will be able to answer these questions:

• How much money did I make through sales today?
• How can I track my MRR (Monthly Recurring Revenue)?
• How many active customers do we have?
• How much revenue did I lose from churned customers?

Some of the metrics you can visualize are churn rate goal, customer churn rate, gross volume, revenue churn, and customers.

Profitwell Revenue Trends Dashboard allows you to monitor all the incoming sources of revenue for your SaaS business and keep track of the important churn metrics.

You can use this free template to see how fast your business is growing. The SaaS metrics will all be located in one comprehensive dashboard and you can visualize all the data with only one click.

Also, you can compare revenue from upgrades and downgrades and investigate your churn ratio revenue.

The PayPal Account Overview Dashboard is extremely useful for bigger companies who want to have a clear overview of their payments, refunds, sales, and other key metrics that your business relies on.

Connecting your PayPal account to the template can be done in a matter of minutes and you will get the answers to questions such as:

• How can I track gross sales?
• What is the best way to calculate net sales?
• How much did I spend on PayPal fees in the previous month?
• How can I check my PayPal account balance?
• How much money was returned through refunds last month?

Streamline Financial Reporting with Databox

Since the financial reports you create will be examined by both government agencies and potential investors, you will want to make sure that they are top-notch.

However, the reporting process can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming and you will face a lot of pressure trying to create the perfect report.

Databox can help relieve this stress and enhance your financial reporting skills.

No matter if you create these financial statements quarterly or annually, you will end up with a handful of data to analyze. With financial reporting software such as Databox, this analysis process will become both simpler and quicker.

With our customizable dashboards, you can visualize all the most important data and gather it in one place. Aside from being visually pleasing, your reports will also be much more engaging and minimize any chances of error since the information will be imported directly from your financial management tools.

To satisfy both your company’s key stakeholders and potential partners, you can sign up here for a free trial and put your financial reporting on autopilot.

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Blog Data Visualization 15 Financial Report Examples to Communicate Financial Data

15 Financial Report Examples to Communicate Financial Data

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Oct 26, 2023

A financial report offers an in-depth view of a company’s financial status over a specific period, encompassing crucial documents like the balance sheet, income statement and the statement of cash flows. 

Such reports provide a clear lens into a company’s operations, enabling stakeholders, financial analysts and investors to evaluate both short term and long term assets and liabilities, net income and the overall financial health.

From the intricacies of accounts receivable and payable to the clarity provided by the statement of cash flow reconciles, financial reports are indispensable.

Furthermore, they reflect a company’s performance, detailing sales revenue, operating expenses and even non-operating revenue. These documents are governed by international financial reporting standards and generally accepted accounting principles, ensuring accuracy and transparency

Dive into our curated collection of 15 financial report examples that elucidate the art of communicating intricate financial data. 

And if you’re seeking an intuitive tool to craft your own financial reports, check out Vennagge’s report maker and access a range of tailored financial report templates . 

Click to jump ahead:

• 15 Financial report examples

How to write a financial report?

What is the difference between financial reports and financial statements, 15 financial report examples to communicate financial data.

Financial reports play a pivotal role in communicating a company’s financial position, performance and projections to its stakeholders. Let’s explore a few types of financial report examples and a comprehensive view of its components and significance.

Annual financial report

The annual financial report is like a yearly check-up for a company’s money. It starts with the company’s mission and vision, which tell us what the company wants to do and where it hopes to go. 

Next, there’s a financial overview that includes important things like the profit, income, budget, expenses, net income and revenue. 

Beyond the numbers, the year’s milestones, challenges and achievements come alive in this section. 

Be it a record-breaking sales figure, expansion into new markets or innovative product launches, the highlights offer a narrative, bridging financial data with the company’s operational journey. 

Financial analysts often look at this section to gauge the company’s performance against its mission and vision, assessing its trajectory for future growth.

Monthly financial report

Monthly financial reports play a pivotal role in the financial management and oversight of any business.

These concise yet comprehensive documents capture the essence of a company’s financial activities over a month, providing valuable insights into revenue streams, expenses incurred and overall profitability.

Tracking these monthly figures allows businesses to swiftly identify trends, pinpoint areas of concern and react to any short-term challenges before they escalate.

The timely nature of these reports means that any deviations from projected performance can be quickly addressed, ensuring that the business remains on a path of sustained growth. 

Furthermore, by offering a detailed breakdown of aspects like sales revenue, operating expenses and potential liabilities, these reports empower businesses to make data-driven decisions, optimize cash flow and fortify their financial health in the competitive marketplace.

Income statement financial report

The income statement, commonly referred to as the profit and loss statement, is one of the three paramount financial statements used by businesses to showcase their financial performance over an accounting period. 

While the balance sheet provides a snapshot of assets and liabilities and the cash flow statement details cash movements, the income statement zooms in on the company’s revenues, expenses, and overall profitability.

It illuminates crucial aspects like operating expenses, sales revenue and net income, offering insights into the company’s operations and its relative standing in the industry. 

By deciphering the data within an income statement, companies can identify areas of efficiency, detect underperforming sectors and align their strategies to ensure optimal financial performance.

Statement of cash flows financial report

A cash flow statement stands as a crucial pillar in a company’s financial reports, detailing the movement of money within the business. 

It captures all cash inflows, from everyday operations to external investment sources, and all outflows, including those that cover various business activities and investments. 

By examining this statement, one can understand if a company is generating enough cash from its operations or relying on external financing. 

Moreover, it helps in ascertaining how a company is managing its cash resources, providing insights into its financial health and operational efficiency.

Statement of change in equity financial report

The statement of change in equity delves deep into the shifts in a company’s equity over a defined accounting period. Commonly known as the statement of retained earnings, this document offers insights into the financial decisions that impact shareholder value. 

It encompasses elements like net profits or losses and the distribution of dividends. By analyzing this statement, stakeholders can grasp how well the company is doing in terms of increasing its retained earnings and thus, enhancing its overall financial health. 

This report plays a vital role in deciphering the company’s commitment to its shareholders, reflecting on its strategic financial decisions.

Summary financial report

A summary financial report can be visualized as a bird’s-eye view of a company’s financial terrain. Unlike exhaustive reports that delve deep into the numbers, this summary highlights the key aspects: revenue, expenses, cash flow, assets, liabilities and equity. 

It’s a tool that encapsulates the company’s financial story, helping investors and stakeholders quickly gauge the business’s fiscal position. 

Whether released quarterly or annually, this summary serves as a preliminary tool for deeper financial exploration, offering a concise yet informative glimpse into the company’s financial trajectory.

Analysis financial report

Financial reports are crucial documents that provide detailed insights into a company’s financial health and performance. At the heart of this analysis is the income statement, which offers a breakdown of a company’s sales revenue, operating expenses and net income over a specific accounting period. 

Another essential element in the analysis is the balance sheet. This statement provides a snapshot of the company’s assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity at a particular point in time. 

By comparing the company’s assets to its liabilities, one can gauge its financial stability and solvency. Additionally, elements like retained earnings give an insight into the company’s reinvestment strategies or dividend payments to shareholders. 

One should not forget the importance of financial ratios derived from these reports, such as the earnings per share (EPS), which can influence the company’s stock price. 

By following generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) or international financial reporting standards (IFRS), companies ensure that their financial reporting examples are consistent and transparent.

Business financial report

A business financial report serves as a compass, indicating the fiscal direction and health of a company over a specified duration.

The linchpin of this report is the income statement, which paints a vivid picture of the company’s earnings landscape by detailing its total sales revenue and segregating operating from non-operating revenue.

It also shines a light on the net income or loss for the period under scrutiny. 

Another critical component of the business financial report is the balance sheet. This offers a consolidated view of the company’s assets, liabilities, and shareholder equity. 

The balance between assets and liabilities gives stakeholders a clear picture of the company’s financial stability and its ability to meet short-term and long-term debt obligations. 

For instance, accounts receivables might indicate the company’s efficiency in collecting dues, while accounts payable can provide insights into the company’s management of its debts. To supplement these, the cash flow statements show how the company manages its cash from operations, investments and financing. 

When combined, these financial documents create a holistic view of a business’s financial health, guiding decisions related to investment banking, marketable securities, and other financial accounts.

Budget financial report

A budget financial report is a forward-looking document that provides an organized and detailed plan for a company’s financial activities for a specific period. This type of report typically includes projected income statements and expected cash flow statements. 

One primary purpose of such a report is to set financial targets for the upcoming reporting period, be it short-term or long-term. By comparing these forecasts with actual financial data as the period progresses, companies can gauge their financial performance and make necessary adjustments to their business operations.

Budgeting plays a pivotal role in financial planning. This report delineates where a company expects its revenue to come from, be it sales revenue, operating revenue or non-operating revenue, and how it plans to spend it.

On the expenditure side, the budget might break down operating expenses , dividend payments, investment in marketable securities and more.

Additionally, this report will often account for both current assets and liabilities and long-term assets and debts. 

By analyzing the budgeted financial statements against the actual financial statements, stakeholders can understand the company’s financial position, its capacity for future growth and its overall business’s financial health. 

Moreover, the budget financial report aids in strategizing investment activities, financing activities and managing the company’s operations effectively, ensuring that the company remains on track to achieve its financial objectives.

Financial reports are instrumental in illustrating a company’s financial position and performance over a specific period. They serve as a roadmap for stakeholders, guiding business decisions and investments.

Crafting an insightful financial report involves a structured approach, detailing various financial activities and metrics.

Step 1: Offer a company overview

Begin by providing an overview of your company. This section should shed light on the company’s operations, market position and business objectives.

Ensure that the company’s financial health and major business operations are highlighted, offering readers a foundation upon which they can base the forthcoming financial data.

Step 2: Delve into sales projections and key financial aspects

Detail your company’s sales forecast, illuminating expected sales revenue and any factors influencing these projections. Additionally, delve into other crucial sections like financial targets, operating revenue and any non-operating revenue.

This offers stakeholders a bird’s-eye view of the company’s expected financial performance for the reporting period.

Step 3: Ascertain the company’s value

Incorporate a section dedicated to the company’s valuation. This should encapsulate assets and liabilities, shareholders equity and any long-term or short-term debt. The company’s valuation is pivotal for investors and financial analysts to ascertain the company’s worth and its potential for future growth.

Step 4: Add the summaries of key financial statements

A comprehensive financial report encompasses summaries of vital financial statements. Furnish a brief overview of the company’s income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement. 

These statements provide insights into the company’s net income, assets liabilities, cash flows and the overall financial health. By adhering to international financial reporting standards or generally accepted accounting principles, you ensure transparency and consistency in financial reporting.

Step 5: Finish with the summary of the entire report

Conclude the report by summarizing your findings. This section should encapsulate your final views about the company’s financial position, performance and potential. Share opinions on whether the company is poised for profit or might incur a loss. 

Consider weaving in financial ratios or any other important financial statements that can bolster your claims. A succinct summary aids stakeholders in quickly grasping the crux of the financial report, influencing their decisions about the company’s prospects.

Related: 20 Professional Report Cover Page Examples & Templates [100% Customizable]

While both financial reports and financial statements serve as pivotal tools in illustrating a business’s financial health, they each have distinct roles and attributes.

At their core, financial statements are essentially a subset within the broader scope of financial reports. Below are the primary contrasts between these two financial tools:

Scope of the report & statement

A financial statement, such as an income statement or a cash flow statement, zooms in on a specific financial aspect. In contrast, a financial report is an amalgamation of multiple related financial details, often encompassing several statements. 

Formatting of the report & statement

Precision in presentation is important for financial statements like the balance sheet. They adhere to set standards, categorizing assets, liabilities and owner’s equity into clear segments with aggregated values for each segment. 

Financial reports, while encapsulating this data, enjoy more flexibility in their presentation format, allowing for variations that might not be possible in individual financial statements.

Length of the report & statement

Given its comprehensive nature, a financial report is typically more voluminous than a single financial statement. 

It paints a holistic picture of a company’s financial terrain, necessitating the inclusion of diverse financial metrics and analyses. 

On the other hand, a financial statement is a concise document focusing on a singular financial facet. 

From assessing an organization’s overall financial health annually to understanding monthly financial fluctuations, the variety of financial report examples underscores the importance of thorough and diverse financial reporting. 

These reports, ranging from the granular focus of income statements to the broader analysis found in summary and business reports, offer stakeholders, both internal and external, a clear window into an entity’s financial position and performance. 

Mastering the nuances of each type can significantly enhance financial transparency and decision-making.

If you’re looking to craft insightful financial reports, tools like Venngage report maker can make the process seamless. Their extensive range of financial report templates ensures you have the perfect layout and design for every financial insight you wish to share.

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How to Write a Financial Analysis Report for Your Business

In this Article

Is your business worth investing in? For most of you, the answer is a definitive 'Yes.' But in the business world, talk is cheap. So if you want to attract investors, you'll need to be able to walk the talk, i.e., put your money where your mouth is. 

There's no better way to do that than with a financial analysis report. After all, numbers don't lie. They're the smoking gun investors need before investing in your business. 

Want to learn how to write a financial analysis report that attracts investors? This article covers six simple steps to follow. But first:

What is a financial analysis report?

A financial analysis report shows the financial performance of your business over a specified period of time, usually on a quarterly or yearly basis. It's like a medical report but for your business's financial health. 

In several countries, financial reporting is a requirement. The Securities and Exchange Commission requires companies to disseminate these digital reports to their shareholders in the United States. In addition, these financial reports are usually made available to the public if they're publicly-listed companies

A financial analysis report is invaluable to both you and your stakeholders. Let's discuss why you need it in the next section.

How does a financial analysis report help?

To make the right financial decisions for your business, you need data. This helps you lay a solid foundation for future performance and economic growth opportunities. 

However, you need to be able to keep track of and make sense of all your financial data. That's where a financial analysis report comes in. It helps you organize, analyze, and paint a clearer picture of your business's cash flow and allows for seamless management of business expenses too.

Aside from those, here are a couple of more reasons why you need a financial analysis report:              

Ensures transparency

A financial analysis report is easy on the eyes. It's a watered-down version of your finances that communicates essential data you need to make financial decisions. 

You ensure the transparency your stakeholders want, too. 

Tracks cash flow

Generally, financial reports help you understand cash inflows and outflows . For example, if you know your affiliate sales and operating expenses, the cost of getting links to increase website traffic , social media marketing campaign expenditure, and the money coming in, you can make better financial decisions. 

The information can help with debt ratios, budgeting, debt-to-asset financial ratio analysis, and calculating profit margins. 

Suggested Reads: 10 Ways to Improve Your Business's Finance Position

Allows for data-driven forecasting

Historical and real-time financial data help create financial models to predict future financial performance. These reports help you identify trends, patterns, and problems. As a result, you can plan for them early enough. 

Simplifies taxation

To create a financial analysis report, you must have all your data in a single document. It becomes easier for you to do your taxes, saves you time, and reduces the chances of making errors. Moreover, it's an official document that the Internal Revenue Service can use to calculate your taxes.

At the end of the day, the goal of a financial report is to provide insight into your organization's finances. Then, using both historical and current data, you can set SMART business goals to make better decisions for future performance. 

Finally, it's essential to consider the ongoing nature of financial analysis and the need for periodic reviews. Implementing a project review process allows you to regularly assess the financial health of your business, identify any emerging trends or issues, and make informed adjustments to your financial strategies. This continuous evaluation ensures that your financial analysis remains up-to-date and relevant, providing you and your stakeholders with accurate insights into your business's performance.

Suggested Reads: 2022 Business Expense Categories Cheat Sheet: Top 15 Tax-Deductible Categories

Benefits of a periodic financial analysis

Financial analysis makes it easy for you to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your business. Using that information will not only help your business grow but also thrive. What's more, doing financial analysis over specific periods helps you stay on top of your game by:

Helping manage debts

A periodic financial analysis includes a financial ratio analysis; specifically, a Liquidity Ratio called the Current Ratio Analysis. The Current Ratio is the sum of all your current assets divided by the sum of your current liabilities. It shows if you're liquid enough to meet your upcoming debts. So, if you aren't, you can adjust your financial strategy the soonest.

Determining profitability

When you perform a periodic financial analysis, you can determine your company's profitability and make regular adjustments. A profitability ratio is a financial metric that can help you cut production costs and boost your bottom line. 

You can use a profitability ratio (featured below) to determine your profit margin on sales, i.e., your gross profit margin. Here's the formula. 

It's your sales revenue minus the total cost of goods sold (COGS) divided by revenue. 

Managing inventory

Another perk of doing financial analysis over a specific period is that it helps you better manage inventory . This way, you ensure it's always enough to meet projected sales. You do this using a financial management ratio called the Inventory Turnover Ratio. 

Calculate the Turnover Ratio by dividing your total sale by your inventory.  

Checking stability and revenue growth 

The results of a periodic financial analysis yield your debt-to-equity ratio, too. It's a financial metric that shows how you've raised capital for your business. You want to check your stability and revenue growth every step of the way to determine whether your business is viable in the long run.

The debt-equity ratio is calculated by dividing your total liabilities by your shareholder's equity. It's usually included when you write a financial analysis report. 

Generally speaking, the higher your debt-equity ratio, the higher the risk, and vice versa. Investors use this financial metric to check your company's stability and ability to raise money to grow. 

Optimizing for growth

Financial analysis over specific periods helps you identify opportunities to optimize operational efficiency for revenue growth. That is, regular annual reports help you spot patterns and trends. This allows you to nip problematic areas in the bud and prepare in advance. 

For instance, you can adjust seasonal sales fluctuations, variable costs, etc. 

How to write a financial analysis report

Now that you understand a financial analysis report's 'what' and 'why,' it's time to look at the 'how.' 

Here's how to write a financial analysis report:          

1. Give an overview of the company

The first section of your financial analysis report is the company overview. Here, you want to highlight the potential of your business. It's pretty much what you do in a business plan . Investors rely on your company overview to understand your competitive edge. 

The question you want to answer here is - is your business worth the investment you're asking for? Think of the introductions in business plans or on Shark Tank to give you a better idea. As a general rule of thumb, you want to use plain language when writing your description.

You want to share, in brief, your history, business model, type of organization, description, etc. You can share what sector you're in as well as the size and scale of your business. 

Featured below is an excellent example of a fictional company's overview.        

Start by reviewing your quarterly or yearly financing activities, financial data, and statements. Then go through published business studies and industry-specific trade journals. 

You should consider adding a snippet about how you compare to the industry average among your competitors. Like a business plan, you want to show potential investors why they should choose you. You can use Porter's Five Forces model to analyze your competition. 

2. Write sales forecast and other vital sections

It pays to be as precise and comprehensive as possible when writing the main content. So, you’ll need to organize your data and, sometimes, make some calculations yourself. For instance, when writing your sales forecast , you need your sales data for the past three years before you organize it in financial reporting software or spreadsheets. Tally the data on a yearly, monthly (for the 1st year), and quarterly (for the last two years) basis. 

You can write this part using a spreadsheet. But feel free to use financial reporting software if spreadsheets aren’t your cup of tea. 

There are other sections you should create for your report’s main body. 

Let’s look at them one by one:

• Expense budget

With your sales forecast in place, it's time to figure out how much it'll cost. When setting up your expense budget , ensure it includes variable costs like your marketing budget and fixed costs like rent. In addition, you'll need to create an estimate for items like interest and taxes. 

• Cash flow statement

A cash flow statement summarizes all the money or its equal coming in (cash inflow) or leaving (cash outflow) a business. To create one, you need historical financial data or project it one year ahead if you're starting. Don't forget your cash flow statement is connected to your invoice.

• Estimate for net profit

Tally your net profit using your sales forecast, expense budget, and cash flow statement data. Your net profit margin is your gross margin less taxes, interest, and expenses. Try and be as precise as possible since this can stand in as your profit and loss (P&L) statement . 

• Estimate for assets and liabilities

Your next step is to calculate your company's net worth. How? By managing your assets and liabilities, i.e., those items that don't appear in your P&L statement. 

To do that, ballpark your monthly cash on hand. That is, equipment, inventory, land, and accounts receivable. Then sum up your liabilities, i.e., outstanding loan debts and accounts payable. 

• Break-even point

The last step in writing a company financial analysis report is calculating your break-even point. That's where your business expenses match your sales volume. Use the formula below to find your three-year sales forecast; this will help you find your break-even point.

Needless to say, if you're operating a profitable business model, then your company's revenue should be higher than your operating expenses. Again, this information helps reassure potential investors of your business' stability and revenue growth potential.  

Refrain from assuming that people know the concepts you'll discuss in your report. Instead, define them in general terms first before you start talking about specifics.

3. Determine the company's valuation

The company valuation part is one of the most critical sections of your financial analysis report. Why? Because it helps potential investors see the value of investing in your company. 

To determine your business' valuation is to find your company's value. You do this by analyzing your company data, including all the data you have discussed. There are three main ways to do it, i.e., using the following: 

• Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Analysis
• Book Value Analysis
• Relative Value Method

The goal here is to outline your current assets and liabilities. Moreover, the above techniques help you determine your business' stocks and current value. To do this, most accountants or financial officers use insights from and final average accounts of your balance sheet. 

4. Perform risk analysis

Risk analysis helps potential investors see your company's investment potential. That includes both current and future risks. You can start risk analysis by running a SWOT analysis . 

But remember that your SWOT analysis is microscopic. So for the best results in your valuation, combine it with other techniques. For example, doing a PESTLE analysis . Here's a template you can use for that:

A PESTLE analysis gives you more details and offers two main benefits. First, it helps you understand your marketing environment and other macro factors that affect your company's financials. 

5. Include summaries of financial statements

When writing the financial analysis report of a company, you need to include a brief overview of your company's financial statements. To do this, summarize each component of the 3-statement model:

Let's discuss each of them:

Cash flow statement. Potential investors look at your cash flow statement summary for two reasons. One, it lets them see if you make enough money to settle your debts. Two, it helps them decide whether your company is worth investing in.

Income statement . A summary of this does two things. First, it shows you gaps in increasing operating profit by allowing you to boost sales revenue , reduce cost, or both. It's also an income statement showing how effective your strategies are at the start of your financial year.

Balance sheet. The balance sheet shows your debt coverage and asset liquidity in real time. The difference between assets and liabilities gives you the 'owner's equity.' Here's an example of a balance sheet:

Note that summarizing each of these three components doesn't mean just including tables in your report. Instead, explain what the data means in paragraph form, too.  

6. Summarize the entire report 

The last section of the financial analysis report of a company is a summary. You want to share your final views about the company and your opinion on whether it's a profit or loss. That said, be sure to substantiate all your claims. 

That means having evidence containing factual data, financial accounts, and proven financial theories. You can also include the outlook of the company. That is the type of organization, industry trends, economic growth strategies, and how they'll affect the company. 

In conclusion

By now, you should understand the value of a company financial analysis report and how to write one. Not only does it show you the financial health status of a company, but it's also the smoking gun investors look for before investing in any business. 

To any organization, a financial analysis report is a compass to optimize operational efficiency for growth. It is also a crucial part in portfolio management especially when you need to open your business up to other stakeholders.

Summarising, to write a financial analysis report, you need to: 

Write your company overview , sales forecast, and other essential sections. Once those are out of the way, you can perform company valuation and risk analysis. Then, all that's left is to summarize what was discussed. 

Daryl Bush is the Business Development Manager at Authority.Builders . The company helps businesses acquire more customers through improved online search rankings. He has extensive knowledge of SEO and business development.

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5 Best Practices and Tips for Creating Robust Financial Reports

October 6, 2023

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A financial report is a crucial document that provides a comprehensive overview of an organization's financial performance, health, and strategic direction. It serves as a tool for stakeholders, including investors, creditors, management, and other interested parties, to assess financial stability and viability.

Writing a great financial report is not only about presenting numbers; it's about effectively communicating the organization's financial story. In this blog, we will delve into proven tips and best practices to help you know how to report and convey your organization's financial health. 

Investopedia says that financial statements offer  a condensed view of a company's financial well-being, offering valuable insights into its performance, operational activities, and cash flow.

Tips for Writing a Financial Report

Here are some tips to help you write an effective financial report:

1. Understand Your Audience

• Identify Stakeholders: Determine who will read your report—investors, executives, or regulators and customize the content according to their financial expertise and interests.
• ‍ Gauge Financial Literacy: Assess your audience's financial knowledge to balance technical jargon and plain language.
• ‍ Address Specific Concerns: Understand the unique concerns of your audience—investors may focus on profitability while regulators prioritize compliance.
• Customize Format: Adjust the report's format, visuals, and depth of analysis to meet the preferences and expectations of your target readers.
• Provide Context: Offer historical context and industry benchmarks to help readers grasp the significance of financial data and trends.

2. Use Clear and Concise Language

• Simplify Complex Concepts: Translate intricate financial terminology into straightforward language to ensure easy comprehension by the audience.
• Avoid Ambiguity: Write with precision and clarity, leaving no room for misinterpretation or confusion regarding financial data and analysis.
• Trim Redundancy: Eliminate unnecessary words or repetitive phrases, promote brevity, and enhance the report's overall readability and impact.
• Define Acronyms: Clearly define available acronyms and abbreviations to enhance understanding, especially for those unfamiliar with finance-specific terms.
• Structure Information: Organize content logically, present financial insights in a step-by-step manner, and enable easier digestion and assimilation of information.

What is financial reporting for small businesses? 

Financial reporting for small businesses involves creating and presenting financial statements, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to communicate their financial performance and position to stakeholders. To know more about its importance, read our blog: Why is financial reporting important for small businesses? 

3. Organize Information Effectively

• Logical Segmentation: Arrange financial data into sections or categories, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, for easy navigation and understanding.
• Headings and Subheadings: Use clear, descriptive headings to guide readers through different parts of the report. This approach enhances comprehension and facilitates quick information retrieval.
• Chronological Flow: Present data and analysis chronologically or sequentially to help readers follow the financial information from past to present performance.
• Visual Aids: Utilize graphs, charts, and tables to illustrate key financial points, aiding in visual interpretation and reinforcing the organized structure of the report.
• Summarize Key Points: Provide a concise summary or executive summary at the beginning or end, consolidating the most critical financial insights for a quick overview.

4. Highlight Key Financial Metrics

• Define Key Metrics: Clearly define and explain the essential financial metrics relevant to the report, ensuring the audience comprehends their significance.
• Emphasize Trends: Showcase trends and patterns in key metrics over time to allow readers to assess financial performance and make informed decisions.
• Comparative Analysis: Compare key metrics with industry benchmarks or previous periods to provide context and evaluate the company's standing in the market.
• Visual Representation: Present key financial metrics using visual aids like charts or graphs to enhance visibility and facilitate a quick grasp of the data.
• Interpretation and Implications: Provide insights into what the key metrics imply for the organization, its financial health, and potential future strategies.

5. Include Visual Aids for Clarity

• Visual Variety: Employ diverse visual aids such as graphs, charts, tables, and infographics to convey financial information in an engaging and easily digestible manner.
• Clear Labels and Titles: Ensure all visuals have descriptive titles and labels, clarify what they represent, and aid in proper interpretation.
• Data Comparison: Utilize visual aids to compare financial data across different periods or benchmarks against industry standards, enhancing the depth of analysis.
• Incorporate Color and Design: Use colors strategically to highlight important data points and trends to enhance the overall appeal and readability of the report.
• Align with Content : Integrate visuals seamlessly with the report's narrative, placing them in relevant sections to reinforce the information being conveyed.

Best Practices for Financial Reporting

Here are some best practices for financial reporting:

1. Follow a Standard Structure

• Consistency: Adhere to a consistent reporting structure over time, making it easier for stakeholders to navigate and compare financial reports.
• GAAP Compliance: Ensure alignment with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) to maintain transparency and reliability in financial statements.
• Section Clarity: Clearly label and organize key sections, including balance sheets, cash flow statements, and others to simplify comprehension.
• Footnotes and Disclosures: Include comprehensive footnotes and disclosures to offer additional context and explain any complex accounting treatments.
• Cross-Referencing: Cross-reference financial data within the report and allow readers to trace figures and gain a holistic view of financial performance.

2. Ensure Accuracy and Precision

• Data Verification: Verify financial data through rigorous review processes to eliminate errors, ensuring the utmost accuracy in the reported figures.
• Reconciliation: Reconcile financial information across various documents and sources to guarantee consistency and precision in the reported numbers.
• Audit Trails: Maintain clear audit trails that document the data collection, validation, and reporting process while enhancing accuracy and facilitating auditing.
• Scrutinize Calculations: Double-check calculations and mathematical formulas to prevent computational errors and maintain precision in financial statements.
• External Review: Seek independent reviews or audits from qualified professionals to validate the accuracy of financial data and reporting processes.

3. Provide Context and Analysis

• Interpret Data: Go beyond raw numbers by offering insightful analysis and explanations, helping readers understand the meaning and implications of financial data.
• Historical Context: Provide historical context to highlight trends and changes over time, aiding in a deeper understanding of financial performance.
• Industry Comparisons: Benchmark financial results against industry peers, enabling stakeholders to assess the company's competitive position.
• Forward-Looking Insights: Offer forecasts and future-oriented analysis to guide stakeholders on potential financial developments and strategies.
• Non-Financial Factors: Integrate non-financial information, such as market conditions and operational challenges, to comprehensively view the business environment.

4. Regularly Review and Update Content

• Timely Revisions: Periodically review and update financial content to reflect the most recent and accurate information, ensuring relevance and reliability.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay current with changing regulatory requirements, modifying financial reporting accordingly to maintain compliance and transparency.
• Reflect Business Changes: Update the report to mirror changes in the business structure, strategies, or operations, aligning financial reporting with the evolving organization.
• Stakeholder Feedback: Incorporate feedback from stakeholders to improve the report's clarity, relevance, and alignment with their informational needs.
• Continuous Improvement: Implement a feedback loop for continual improvement to allow ongoing enhancements based on evolving reporting standards and stakeholder expectations.

5. Comply with Regulatory Requirements

• Stay Informed: Stay updated on all relevant financial regulations, ensuring compliance with the latest standards set by governing bodies and authorities.
• Regulatory Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis to understand the specific financial reporting requirements applicable to your industry and jurisdiction.
• Expert Consultation: Seek guidance from legal and financial experts to interpret and implement regulatory requirements accurately within financial reporting practices.
• Periodic Compliance Checks: Regularly audit and verify compliance with financial regulations, identifying any deviations and promptly addressing them to mitigate risks.
• Transparency and Disclosure: Maintain transparency by clearly disclosing adherence to regulatory guidelines within financial reports, instilling confidence among stakeholders.

The technological advancements have brought about a transformation in financial reporting. Advanced technologies empower businesses with enhanced decision-making capabilities by providing clear and accurate reports. However, as financial data becomes more abundant and intricate, there is a growing need to ensure data accuracy and integrity. Any inaccuracies or inconsistencies in financial reports can lead to severe consequences, such as legal repercussions and damaged reputations. This is where the need for an external partner arises. These partners offer specialized expertise and ensure customized solutions to overcome the above difficulties. 

At Invensis , we help businesses with tailored solutions that align with business's specific needs in interpreting financial data and also help them navigate the intricacies of financial reporting. We also assist businesses to leverage our expertise and resources for comprehensive financial reporting. Contact us to foster financial transparency, efficiency, and strategic growth with our financial analysis and reporting services .

Rick is a highly accomplished finance and accounting professional with over a decade of experience. Specializing in delivering exceptional value to businesses, Rick navigates the complexities of the financial realm easily. His expertise spans various industries, consistently providing accurate insights and recommendations to support informed decision-making. Rick simplifies complex financial concepts into actionable plans, fostering collaboration between finance and other departments. With a proven track record, Rick is a leading writer who brings clarity and directness to finance and accounting, helping businesses confidently achieve their goals.

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Ultimate Guide on How to Write a Report Tips and Sample

Defining a Report

A report is a type of writing that represents information, data, and research findings on a specific topic. The writer is expected to deliver a well-structured, credible, and informative text that dives into the small details of a certain topic, discussing its benefits and challenges.

Reports serve many important purposes. They provide recorded facts and findings. They are used to analyze data and draw insights that can be used for decision-making. Some reports serve as compliance checks to ensure that organizations meet certain standards and requirements. Also, reports are a formal way to communicate valuable information to decision-makers and stakeholders.

A report paper can be academic or about sales, science, business, etc. But unlike other texts, report writing takes much more than getting acquainted with the subject and forming an opinion about it. Report preparation is the most important stage of the writing process. Whether you are assigned to write an academic or a sales paper, before you start writing, you must do thorough research on the topic and ensure that every source of information is trustworthy.

Report writing has its rules. In this article, we will cover everything from how to start a report to how to format one. Below you will find a student research report sample. Check our paper writer service if you want one designed specifically for your requirements.

Student Research Report Sample

Before you read our article on how to write an act essay , see what an informative and well-structured report looks like. Below you will find a sample report that follows the format and tips we suggested in the article.

Explore and learn more about comprehensive but concise reports.

What are the Report Types

As mentioned, there are plenty of different types of report papers. Even though they are very formal, academic reports are only one of many people will come across in their lifetime. Some reports concentrate on the annual performance of a company, some on a project's progress, and others on scientific findings.

Next, we will elaborate more on different sorts of reports, their contents, and their purpose. Don't forget to also check out our report example that you can find below.

Academic Reports

An academic report represents supported data and information about a particular subject. This could be a historical event, a book, or a scientific finding. The credibility of such academic writing is very important as it, in the future, could be used as a backup for dissertations, essays, and other academic work.

Students are often assigned to write reports to test their understanding of a topic. They also provide evidence of the student's ability to critically analyze and synthesize information. It also demonstrates the student's writing skills and ability to simply convey complex findings and ideas.

Remember that the report outline will affect your final grade when writing an academic report. If you want to learn about the correct report writing format, keep reading the article. If you want to save time, you can always buy essays online .

Project Reports

Every project has numerous stakeholders who like to keep an eye on how things are going. This can be challenging if the number of people who need to be kept in the loop is high. One way to ensure everyone is updated and on the same page is periodic project reports.

Project managers are often assigned to make a report for people that affect the project's fate. It is a detailed document that summarizes the work done during the project and the work that needs to be completed. It informs about deadlines and helps form coherent expectations. Previous reports can be used as a reference point as the project progresses.

Sales Reports

Sales reports are excellent ways to keep your team updated on your sales strategies. It provides significant information to stakeholders, including managers, investors, and executives, so they can make informed decisions about the direction of their business.

A sales report usually provides information about a company's sales performance over a precise period. These reports include information about the revenue generated, the total number of units sold, and other metrics that help the company define the success of sales performance.

Sales report preparation is a meticulous job. To communicate information engagingly, you can put together graphs showing various information, including engagement increase, profit margins, and more.

Business Reports

If you were assigned a business report, something tells us you are wondering how to write a report for work. Let us tell you that the strategy is not much different from writing an academic report. A Strong thesis statement, compelling storytelling, credible sources, and correct format are all that matter.

Business reports can take many forms, such as marketing reports, operational reports, market research reports, feasible studies, and more. The purpose of such report writing is to provide analysis and recommendations to support decision-making and help shape a company's future strategy.

Most business reports include charts, graphs, and other visual aids that help illustrate key points and make complex information easy to digest. 

Scientific Reports

Scientific reports present the results of scientific research or investigation to a specific audience. Unlike book reports, a scientific report is always reviewed by other experts in the field for its accuracy, quality, and relevance.

If you are a scientist or a science student, you can't escape writing a lab report. You will need to provide background information on the research topic and explain the study's purpose. A scientific report includes a discussion part where the researcher interprets the results and significance of the study.

Whether you are assigned to write medical reports or make a report about new findings in the field of physics, your writing should always have an introduction, methodology, results, conclusion, and references. These are the foundation of a well-written report.

Annual Reports

An annual report is a comprehensive piece of writing that provides information about a company's performance over a year. In its nature, it might remind us of extended financial reports.

Annual reports represent types of longer reports. They usually include an overview of a company's activities, a financial summary, detailed product and service information, and market conditions. But it's not just a report of the company's performance in the sales market, but also an overview of its social responsibility programs and sustainability activities.

The format of annual report writing depends on the company's specific requirements, the needs of its stakeholder, and the regulation of the country it's based.

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Report Format

As we've seen throughout this article, various types of reports exist. And even though their content differs, they share one essential element: report writing format. Structure, research methods, grammar, and reference lists are equally important to different reports.

Keep in mind that while the general format is the same for every type, you still need to check the requirements of the assigned report before writing one. School reports, lab reports, and financial reports are three different types of the same category.

We are now moving on to discuss the general report format. Let's direct our attention to how to start a report.

Title : You need a comprehensive but concise title to set the right tone and make a good impression. It should be reflective of the general themes in the report.

Table of Contents : Your title page must be followed by a table of contents. We suggest writing an entire report first and creating a table of content later.

Summary : The table of contents should be followed by an executive report summary. To create a comprehensive summary, wait until you have finished writing the full report.

Introduction : A major part of the report structure is an introduction. Make sure you convey the main idea of the report in just a few words. The introduction section must also include a strong thesis statement.

Body : The central part of your work is called the report's body. Here you should present relevant information and provide supported evidence. Make sure every paragraph starts with a topic sentence. Here you can use bullet points, graphs, and other visual aids.

Conclusion : Use this part to summarize your findings and focus on the main elements and what they bring to the table. Do not introduce new ideas. Good report writing means knowing the difference between a summary and a conclusion.

Recommendations : A report is designed to help decision-makers or provide crucial information to the conversation, including a set of goals or steps that should be taken to further advance the progress.

Appendices : As a finishing touch, include a list of source materials on which you based the information and facts. If you want your report to get acknowledged, don't neglect this part of the report format.

How to Write a Report Like a PRO

Mastering the report writing format is only a fraction of the job. Writing an exceptional report takes more than just including a title page and references.

Next, we will offer report-writing tips to help you figure out how to write a report like a PRO. Meanwhile, if you need someone to review your physics homework, our physics helper is ready to take on the job.

Start With a Strong Thesis

A strong thesis is essential to a good paper because it sets the direction for the rest. It should provide a well-defined but short summary of the main points and arguments made in the report.

A strong thesis can help you collect your thoughts and ensure that the report has a course and a coherent structure. It will help you stay focused on key points and tie every paragraph into one entity.

A clear thesis will make your report writing sound more confident and persuasive. It will make finding supporting evidence easier, and you will be able to effectively communicate your ideas to the reader.

Use Simple Wording

Reports are there to gather and distribute as much information to as many people as possible. So, the content of it should be accessible and understandable for everyone, despite their knowledge in the field. We encourage you to use simple words instead of fancy ones when writing reports for large audiences.

Other academic papers might require you to showcase advanced language knowledge and extensive vocabulary. Still, formal reports should present information in a way that does not confuse.

If you are wondering how to make report that is easy to read and digest, try finding simpler alternatives to fancy words. For example, use 'example' instead of 'paradigm'; Use 'relevant' instead of 'pertinent'; 'Exacerbate' is a fancier way to say 'worsen,' and while it makes you look educated, it might cause confusion and make you lose the reader. Choose words that are easier to understand.

Present Only One Concept in Each Phrase

Make your reports easier to understand by presenting only one concept in each paragraph. Simple, short sentences save everyone's time and make complex concepts easier to digest and memorize. 

Report writing is not a single-use material. It will be reread and re-used many times. Someone else might use your sales report to support their financial report. So, to avoid confusion and misinterpretation, start each paragraph with a topic sentence and tie everything else into this main theme.

Only Present Reliable Facts

You might have a strong hunch about future events or outcomes, but a research report is not a place to voice them. Everything you write should be supported by undisputed evidence.

Don't forget that one of the essential report preparation steps is conducting thorough research. Limit yourself to the information which is based on credible information. Only present relevant facts to the topic and add value to your thesis.

One of our report writing tips would be to write a rough draft and eliminate all the information not supported by reliable data. Double-check the credibility of the sources before finalizing the writing process.

Incorporate Bullet Points

When writing a research report, your goal is to make the information as consumable as possible. Don't shy away from using visual aids; this will only help you connect with a wider audience.

Bullet points are a great way to simplify the reading process and draw attention to the main concepts of the report. Use this technique in the body part of the report. If you notice that you are writing related information, use bullet points to point out their relation.

Incorporating bullet points and other visual aids in your report writing format will make a report easy to comprehend and use for further research.

While you are busy coming up with effective visual aids, you may not have enough time to take care of other assignments. Simply say, ' write my argumentative essay ,' and one of our expert writers will answer your prayer.

Review the Text for Accuracy and Inconsistencies

After completing report preparation and writing, ensure you don't skip the final stage. Even the greatest writers are not immune to grammatical mistakes and factual mix-ups.

Reviewing what you wrote is just as important as the research stage. Make sure there are no inconsistencies, and everything smoothly ties into the bigger scheme of events. Look out for spelling mistakes and word count.

If you want to further advance your writing skills, read our article about how to write a cover letter for essay .

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How to Write an Annual Financial Report

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Business Objectives in Designing Reports

How to create an annual report for sales & marketing, how to write a data report.

• What Is the Difference Between a Financial Report & a Budget Report?
• What Is the Purpose of Company Annual Reports?

The annual financial report is a major event used to recount the success, failures and general trends from the previous year. The report is easily customized to reflect the business culture and audience. Some reports are very direct while others incorporate creative designs and custom elements. Regardless, the financials are a major element in every annual report, because they show the true earnings and vital signs from the entire business year.

Elements of an Annual Report

The report is designed to show the earnings, investments and important figures from the year but it should also tell a story and share a big picture vision for the company. Writing the financial aspect of the annual report is the most intensive segment – as it requires verification from accounting – along with preparing financial statements relevant to the business.

In some cases, this might be fairly straightforward – but a large corporation that has layers of investments and multiple departments – requires significant time investment and a team of writers and accountants that can pull everything into a tangible, legible format .

Beyond the financial reporting, an annual report might include a letter from the CEO, profiles and accomplishments from key personnel, such as the Chief Financial Officer and the managerial or executive team. Case studies from the year are not uncommon, since achievements and highlights, charitable giving and future outlooks based on projections and strategy are usual elements of the overall report.

Some businesses settle for the annual financial report as a standalone document - but incorporating more elements can help paint a nice picture of the company, its culture and its leadership.

Write a Clear Mission Statement

Lead with a mission statement to clarify the objectives of the business and of the business model itself. This serves readers who are not entirely familiar with the company but who may have interest in investing and gaining a stake in the business.

In the mission statement, include the big-picture elements of the company, while keeping the statement to two to three paragraphs in length. Why does the company exist and what purpose does it serve? How does the company operate and make money?

Specifics are important in the mission statement. Take the extraction industry as an example. One company will focus on extracting oil with a drilling well, while another extracts oil from sand. A natural gas company using fracking techniques sits in an emerging technology market, whereas a traditional natural gas model extracts from known gas reserves in the earth.

The investor perspective sees more risk and more potential gains from an emerging technology, but he might prefer the proven model for sustainable returns. The specific niche, technology and position within the market should be clearly defined int he mission statement.

TOC and Executive Summary

Navigating a large annual report that does not have a table of contents is difficult. Make a clear outline of each section with the corresponding page numbers. In a digital format, incorporating the ability to click on a specific element within the table of contents to jump ahead is a valuable time saver. This allows the reader to quickly access desired information, without blindly scrolling or thumbing through bulk pages.

After the table of contents, add an executive summary with only the key figures. Show the final results for earnings, growth, investments, charitable contributions and anything important. This single-page summary shows the key takeaways in a single, easy-to-read page.

For example, it might show $10 million in revenue with 5 percent growth over the previous year and $1 million in equitable assets purchased. With that information, the reader already knows the big picture numbers – and the reader can choose to explore the cause and effect, if desired.

Key Financial Metrics

The annual accounts preparation includes everything relevant during the year. The total earnings is an important figure, but strategies are often deployed for long-term growth that will reduce the immediate yield. Demonstrating the long-term plan for growth based on these strategies is important to build shareholder confidence in sustainable returns.

The key financial metrics to show include the financial balance sheet, income statement and the cash flow statement. The balance sheet reconciles cash and outstanding invoices against all liabilities. The liabilities include outstanding invoices from the year, debts and the company net worth.

The balance sheet numbers are often in the negative, because they show the balance, which includes mortgages and major debts. This is not a point of concern, and adding the balance sheet from the previous three years works well – as a point of reference – when it shows that the balance on debts and investments are decreasing alongside of a net worth growth.

However, the income statement is notable – ideally, it reflects a positive number and year-over-year growth. The income statement is written as a profit and loss report that calculates billables against expenses to show the net income for the entire year. Write this statement with the revenue in the left column and the expenditures in the right column. Subtract expenditures from revenue to show the total across the year.

The last critical element of the financial section is the cash-flow statement. This shows the money spent on taxes, interest payments and capital investments like equipment and real estate. It shows the values on those capital investments for both money spent and money gained from selling. Additionally, it shows all of the money that came into the business. The cash flow statement is important to show the value and strategy behind investments.

Create Intelligent Graphics

Writing the annual financial report comes with a heap of numbers. The average reader will struggle to interpret and analyze the large amount of raw data. Graphics are critical and they help highlight the data in a visually enticing format.

Create flow charts and pie charts to clearly show the earnings across each quarter. Add historic reports, especially when the current financial reports show growth trends. These serve to prove successful strategies.

Add arrows, sidebars and highlights to draw attention to key components in the report. For example, you might show how a drop in cash-flow during Q2 occurred after a major equipment investment then show the earnings report for Q3 and Q4 to show where the investment added revenue.

The graphics are powerful, and they help engage the reader in a less time-consuming format. This is especially important for busy shareholders who really want to see the nuts and bolts without analyzing every expenditure across the year.

Interpreting the Data

The graphics will help interpret data but writing the report requires language to help clarify the key takeaways. When writing an annual financial report and designing graphics, break out the numbers by quarter with a final annual statement. This helps show how things evolved across the entire year, while also creating manageable chunks of data.

The quarterly review also opens the door to analysis against shorter periods of time. This helps when attempting to show cause and effect for earnings across the year. For example, Q1 was slow, so the company hired a new sales director and by Q3, the decision showed the payoff with a major increase in revenue across the remainder of the year.

If the cause and effects of specific decisions are notable within shorter windows of time, you can create a narrow breakdown or you can draw attention to those specific periods of time on the quarterly charts.

The Strategy Section

This section is optional – and in some cases, omitting the strategy is important for protecting sensitive information, such as your financial business plan. Consider the audience before writing a report that spills trade secrets and long-term vision. The competition does not need to know your playbook.

In some cases, however, showing your strategies alongside of your results is productive. This analysis works to show the good and bad aspects of strategy, and it serves as a productive template for future decision-making processes. The ability to note a poor decision and pivot to achieve a better result shows a responsive and adaptive business.

The strategy section can also serve to show what is expected for the new year. If one or more tactics are proven revenue drivers, refining and expanding those concepts for the new year is worth noting in this section. If sharing strategies is not appropriate, you can still write this section as a separate document for internal use only.

Future Projection Analysis

Another optional section in the annual report is a future projection analysis based on historic financial reports. Dissecting multiple years of reports to analyze and uncover trends will help set projections for the following year.

In order to make accurate predictions, a solid baseline of historic reports is absolutely essential, as this practice is a function of statistics. More data lends to better reporting. Use at least three to five years of historic financials to build projections.

Projections Based on Earnings Trends

Projections are based on trends against quarterly and annual earnings. Adding value based on assets and then appreciating for items such as real estate, also shows what the future value of the business will be.

For example, a continually reduced mortgage against an appreciable piece of real estate is used to show how value increases for that specific property, based on market trends. If the average value for a commercial property increases at .5 % annually, weigh that against the decreasing liability to show the value for the following year.

Combine the assets from cash flow statements and place them alongside revenue trends averaged across multiple years to show where the business is moving.

Edit, Edit and Edit Again

After the report is written, designed and formatted for print and digital use, the tedious task of editing must begin. Start with a round of financial report editing. Double check every figure against the finalized reports to ensure that every number is accurate.

Next, run through the text for basic grammatical errors. Make the appropriate corrections before making a second sweep through the document for language and rewrites. The annual report has little room for obscurity, and everything must have accurate language that reflects the numbers. A cut-and-dry style is appropriate outside of company culture articles and case studies.

After finalizing the text, run through the numbers again for accuracy. Send the final draft to your accounting department for review and approval on all financial claims. Then, send it off to the CEO and to any outside review sources to make final changes to the text and graphics. After the document is thoroughly reviewed, save the final draft and prepare it for presentation.

• University of Wollongong: Report Writing - Writing Accounting and Finance Reports
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Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer with extensive experience in startups and digital advertising. He has a diverse background with a strong presence in the digital marketing world. Zach has developed and sold multiple successful web properties and manages marketing for multiple clients in the outdoor industry. He has published business content in Angling Trade Magazine and writes white papers and case studies for multiple corporate partners.

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Financial Statement Analysis Essay

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It is important to conduct analytical activity on the overall performance of an organization in order to ensure future progressions towards profitability and success. One of such measures is financial statement analysis, which “is the process of analyzing historical financial statement data for the purpose of developing forecasts of future earnings” (Monahan, 2018, p. 107).

In other words, the key emphasis is put on assessing the financial performance of an organization or company with the goal of ensuring a higher degree of profitability and growth. It is a highly important area of study due to its capability to “systematically measure the effect of factors computed using these statements and to determine their ability to predict future returns” (Tulchinsky, 2020, p. 141). It provides valuable information for both the company management as well as investors, and the former is obligated to inform the latter on the overall state of a publicly owned corporate entity.

More specifically, financial statements are critical as measures of accountability, and they allow the interested parties to be able to predict and identify warning signals. The analysis also serves as a management report card and as an analytical tool (Revsine et al., 2021). Therefore, the purpose of financial statement analysis can be considered as a multidimensional one with the goal of comprehensively assessing the overall business’s health. It should be noted that the financial statement analysis allows to spot key weaknesses and vulnerabilities of organizational performance, and it also increases the mandatory level of accountability. For example, financial statements are an invaluable source of data for ensuring that no fraudulent activities are taking place, which ensures a high degree of transparency.

The major takeaway from financial statement analysis is manifested in three essential documents, which are the cash flow statements, profit and loss statements, and the balance sheet. In the case of the latter, shareholders can learn and understand the current state of a company’s assets and liabilities as well as stakeholders’ equity. A cash flow statement enables a more direct look at the cash movements within an organization in three major channels, such as investing activities, financing activities, and operating activities. Lastly, profit and loss statements provide information on the profitability of a business with an emphasis on revenue and expenses, which yield profit.

The Biblical implications of reliable and representationally faithful financial statements are manifested in the fact that it ensures transparency and honesty in business operations. The Holy Bible states: “Do not have two differing weights in your bag—one heavy, one light. Do not have two differing measures in your house—one large, one small. You must have accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you” (The Holy Bible: New International Version. 1973/2011, Deuteronomy 25:13-15).

In other words, the verse emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in regard to financial transactions and operations, which means that companies and businesses need to adhere to strict regulatory standards of ethical business conduct. It is of paramount importance to thoroughly and diligently conduct financial statement analyses to ensure that the shareholders and company managers are aware of the major weaknesses and threats since one might not intentionally mean harm or dishonesty, but the implications are still relevant to consider. Thus, financial statements play a vital role in increasing and preserving accountability.

Monahan, S. J. (2018). Financial statement analysis and earnings forecasting. Foundations and Trends® in Accounting, 12 (2), 105–215. Web.

Revsine, L., Collins, D., Johnson, B., Mittelstaedt, F., & Soffer, L. (2021). Financial Reporting and Analysis (8 th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

The Holy Bible: New International Version . (2011). Bible Gateway. Web.

Tulchinsky, I. (2020). Finding alphas: A quantitative approach to building trading strategies . John Wiley & Sons.

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How to write a financial need statement for your scholarship application (with examples!)

So you’re applying for a scholarship that asks you about your financial need. What do you say? How honest or specific should you be? What is TMI? In this article, we break down how to pen an awesome financial need scholarship essay or statement.

What to include in a financial need scholarship essay

Template to structure your financial need scholarship essay, introduction: your basic profile, body: your financial situation and hardships, conclusion: how you would benefit from this scholarship, was this financial need essay for a college financial aid application , now, reuse that same essay to apply for more scholarships, additional resources to help you write your financial need scholarship essay.

Many scholarships and college financial aid awards are “need-based,” given to students whose financial situation requires additional support. That’s why one of the most common college scholarship essays is a statement of financial need. This might be very explicit (“Explain your financial need”), somewhat explicit (“Describe your financial situation”), or quite open-ended (“Explain why you need this scholarship”).

In all cases, scholarship providers want to get a sense of your family’s financial picture: what your family income is, if you personally contribute to it (do you have a job?), and how much additional money you need to attend your target college (your “financial gap”).

If the essay prompt is a bit more open-ended (“Explain how this scholarship would help you”), your essay should probably be a combination of a financial need statement and a career goals / academic goals essay.  That’s because you want to show how the award will help you financially and in your academic or career goals.

Usually this statement of financial need is a pretty short scholarship essay (150-300 words), so unlike a college essay or personal statement where you have ample word count to tell anecdotes, you’ll likely need to get right to the point. 

Be sure to include: 

• If you are an underrepresented group at college, for instance, part of an ethnic minority or the first in your family to go to college
• Any relevant family circumstances, like if your parents are immigrants or refugees, as well as your parents’ occupation and how many children/family members they support financially
• How you are currently paying for college, including what you personally are doing to contribute financially (like working student jobs)
• What financial challenges/difficulties your family is facing, for instance, if a parent recently lost their job
• How you would benefit from the scholarship–including your academic and career goals (if word count allows)

Also remember to write in an optimistic tone. Writing about your financial situation or hardships might not be the most positive thing to share. But you can turn it around with an optimistic tone by writing about how these challenges have taught you resiliency and grit.

Give a short introduction to who you are, highlighting any family characteristics that might make you part of an underrepresented group at college. 

“I am a first-generation American and the first in my family to go to college. My family moved from El Salvador to New York when I was seven years old, to escape the violence there.”

Example 2: 

“I am from a working-class family in Minnesota. My family never had a lot, but we pooled our efforts together to make ends meet. My parents both worked full-time (my father as a mechanic, my mother as a receptionist at the local gym), while my siblings and I all worked weekend jobs to contribute to the family income.”

Dive into the details. How are you currently planning to pay for college? The idea here is to show that you and your family have made a good-faith effort to earn enough money to pay your tuition, but that it has simply not been enough. 

Make sure you describe your parents’ occupation, any savings (like a 529 College Savings Account), and any student jobs. You might also discuss any sudden changes in fortune (e.g. parent fell ill or lost their job) that have ruined your original financial plans. 

Example 

As immigrants with limited English, my parents have had to accept low-paying jobs. My father is an Uber driver, and my mother is a housekeeper. They earn just enough to pay our rent and put food on the table, so I’ve always known they could not help me pay for college.  So I’ve been proactive about earning and saving my own money. Since age 11, I’ve worked odd jobs (like mowing my neighbors’ lawns). At age 16, I started working at the mall after school and on weekends. Through all these jobs, I’ve saved about $3000. But even with my financial aid grants, I need to pay $8000 more per year to go to college. 

Bring it home by wrapping up your story.  Explain how you plan to use the financial aid if you’re awarded this scholarship. How will you benefit from this award? What will you put the money toward, and how will it help you achieve your academic and/or career goals?

Scholarship review boards want to know that their money will be put to good use, supporting a student who has clear plans for the future, and the motivation and determination to make those plans a reality. This is like a shortened, one-paragraph version of the “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” essay . 

Winning $5000 would help me close the financial gap and take less in student loans. This is particularly important for me because I plan to study social work and eventually work in a role to support my community. However, since these jobs are not well paid, repaying significant student loans would be difficult. Your scholarship would allow me to continue down this path, to eventually support my community, without incurring debt I can’t afford.

My plan is to study human biology at UC San Diego, where I have been admitted, and eventually pursue a career as a Nurse-Practitioner. I know that being pre-med will be a real academic challenge, and this scholarship would help me focus on those tough classes, rather than worrying about how to pay for them. The $2000 award would be equivalent to about 150 hours of working at a student job. That’s 150 hours I can instead focus on studying, graduating, and achieving my goals. 

Sometimes this financial need statement isn’t for an external scholarship. Instead, it’s for your college financial aid office.

In that case, you’re usually writing this statement for one of two reasons:

• You’re writing an appeal letter , to request additional financial aid, after your original financial aid offer wasn’t enough. In this case, you’ll want to make sure you’re being extra specific about your finances.
• You’re applying for a specific endowed scholarship that considers financial need. In this case, your financial need essay can be quite similar to what we’ve outlined above.

Now that you’ve written a killer financial need scholarship essay, you have one of the most common scholarship essays ready on hand, to submit to other scholarships too.

You can sign up for a free Going Merry account today to get a personalized list of hundreds of scholarships matched to your profile. You can even save essays (like this one!) to reuse in more than one application.  

You might also be interested in these other blog posts related to essay writing:

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How to Write a Financial Analysis Paper

Jun 20, 2018 | Writing

A financial analysis is a paper that contains the details of the company’s financial health. Even though the firm’s history, financial statements and stock performance can summarize various aspects of its financial performance, the financial analysis paper incorporates all the info into a comprehensive form. A financial analysis paper helps lenders, investors and financial analysts to determine if a business can deliver a solid return on investment.

Composing a company’s comprehensive financial analysis helps investors to determine whether to invest in the business. while there is no specific approach to write the document and its presentation styles tend to vary, the key components must be incorporated on any financial analysis. Once all the component of a financial analysis has been carefully reviewed, a conclusion can be made regarding the financial health of a particular business.

An executive summary section comprises the most significant results from the financial analysis in a concise and easy-to-read format. This section encapsulates the data presented in the rest of the report, comprising the implications those statistics have in the industry in a general and the company at large. The summary section can comprise brief summaries of the firm’s mission, history, current performance, and expected outlook. Additionally, the section will include a summary if the firm’s industry, market situation and competition.

Bear in mind that the core of a good financial analysis paper is the collection of the firm’s financial statements. The statements include the balance sheet, equity statement, income statement and cash flow statement. The balance sheet will display the firm’s allocation of assets, liabilities and shareholder’ equity. On the other hand, the income statement will display the firm’s income, expenditure, losses and profits. The equity statement is used to show the changes in the amount of shareholder’s equity while the cash flow will stipulate where the firm obtained its cash and how it was spent.

It is evident that no business exists in a vacuum and for this reason, a financial analysis should have an examination of the firm’s industry. The report will consist of a clear comparison between the firm’s financial health and that of its competitors. Additionally, it will report the firm’s market share and prominence in the industry. All these factors assist the investors to determine if the form is competing well in its industry and could make a lucrative investment.

Financial ratios help in revealing various significant aspects such as the company’s liquidity, debt load and efficiency. The current liquidity ratio is referred to as the ratio of the firm’s current assists to its current liabilities. On the other hand, the debt ratio is the ratio of the firm’s total debt to its total equity, while the return ratio weighs a company’s profits against its shareholder’s equity. The price to income ratio can be computed by dividing the present market price per share by the after tax income per share.

The procedure of writing a professional financial analysis paper can be instrumental in ensuring that an investor gets all the information needed when researching a business. below is an outline of the primary sections to ponder when composing a financial analysis paper for a certain company.

A good financial paper must begin with a description of the business so that it can assist investors understand the company, its industry, its motivation and any advantage it has over its competitors. Note that these aspects play a vital role in assisting to explain if a business can be lucrative venture or not. A company’s annual report with securities and exchange commission tend to offer a perfect starting points.

The incentive for bullish or bearish stance on a firm is uncovered in this part. It can come at the top of a report include parts of a firm overview, but regardless of its position in an analysis must cover the primary investment negatives and positives. A fundamental analysis that contains the financial statements like sales and profit growth trends, cash flow generation strength, debt level and company’s liquidity can be included in the investment thesis. Note that no information is too insignificant in this section since it can as well cover efficiency ratios like the core components in the cash conversion cycle, turnover ratios and detailed breakdown of return on equity components.

The most vital component of analyzing previous growth trends is to synthesize it into a forecast of the business’s performance. A good financial analysis paper will help analyst to accurately extrapolate the past trends into the future. Additionally, it helps them decide which aspects are more significant in defining success for a business.

The most significant section of any financial analysis is to arrive to an independent value for the stock and compare this to the current market price. However, there are three key valuation techniques you need to ponder. The first one is the discount cash flow analysis that helps in estimating the business’s future cash flow and discount them back to the future at a projected discount rate. The second one is the relative value where the fundamental metrics and valuation ratios such as price to sales ratio, price to income ratio and P/E to business growth ratio are compared competitors. Another key contrast is to consider is what other competitors have been out for or the price paid for a purchase. The last technique is looking at the book value and try to estimate what the business may be worth if it collapses or liquidated.

The part can be either the bull or bear story in the investment thesis, but it helps to detail the key aspects that might disrupt either an optimistic or bearish stance. The above mentions sections can prove sufficient, but based on the things that are covered during a financial analysis, other new parts may be included in the paper. Parts that are meant to cover corporate governance, political environment or near-term news flow can be worthy of a comprehensive financial analysis paper. Bear in mind that anything significant that can affect the future value of a stock must be included in the paper.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

Your complete guide to writing an effective report essay to impress your readers.

Are you ready to take your academic writing prowess to the next level? Do you aspire to craft compelling and persuasive reports that leave a lasting impression on your readers? Look no further – we have all the insider tips and expert guidelines you need to succeed in writing a remarkable analytical essay!

Picture this: you have been assigned a report essay – a task that can seem overwhelming and intimidating at first. But fear not, for we are here to provide you with the essential tools and strategies to conquer this challenge with ease and finesse. So, grab your pen, gather your thoughts, and get ready to embark on a journey of analytical excellence!

In the realm of academic writing, a report essay requires a unique blend of critical thinking, meticulous research, and articulate writing skills. It is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your ability to analyze and interpret information, and to present your findings in a clear and concise manner. Throughout this guide, we will equip you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to deliver a report essay that captivates your audience and earns you the recognition you deserve.

Tips for Writing a Report Essay

When it comes to composing a report essay, there are several crucial aspects to consider that can enhance the quality and effectiveness of your writing. By following these tips, you can ensure that your report is well-organized, informative, and engaging to the reader.

• Choose a compelling topic: Select a subject that interests you and is relevant to your audience. A captivating topic will not only keep your readers engaged but will also make the writing process more enjoyable for you.
• Conduct thorough research: To provide valuable insights in your report essay, it is essential to gather reliable information. Utilize a variety of credible sources, such as books, academic journals, and reputable websites, to ensure a well-rounded perspective on the topic.
• Outline your essay: Before diving into the writing process, create an outline to organize your thoughts and ideas. This will help you establish a clear structure for your essay and ensure a logical flow of information.
• Use clear and concise language: Avoid unnecessary jargon or complex vocabulary that may confuse your readers. Instead, strive for clarity and simplicity in your writing. Explain concepts in a straightforward manner to ensure that your audience understands the information you are conveying.
• Provide evidence and examples: Back up your statements with evidence and examples to support your arguments and claims. This will add credibility to your report essay and demonstrate your research and understanding of the topic.
• Edit and revise: After completing the initial draft, take the time to edit and revise your essay. Look out for grammatical errors, logical inconsistencies, and areas that need improvement. Pay attention to the structure and flow of your writing to ensure a cohesive and coherent report.
• Cite your sources: Give credit to the authors and researchers whose work you have used in your report by providing proper citations. This not only acknowledges their contributions but also adds credibility and integrity to your essay.

By following these tips, you can enhance your report essay writing skills and produce a well-structured and informative piece of writing that engages and informs your readers.

Understanding the Purpose

In order to effectively write a report essay, it is essential to have a clear understanding of its purpose. This section will explore the main objectives and goals of writing a report essay, allowing you to approach the task with confidence and clarity.

Identifying the purpose:

The purpose of a report essay is to provide a comprehensive and well-researched account of a particular topic or subject. It aims to analyze, evaluate, and present information in a structured and organized manner. A report essay should be informative, objective, and credible, presenting facts and findings that are supported by evidence and research.

Informing and educating:

A key goal of a report essay is to inform and educate the reader. It should provide a clear understanding of the topic at hand, presenting relevant information and data in a concise and accessible way. The purpose is to ensure that readers gain knowledge and insights on the subject, enabling them to make informed decisions or form their own opinions.

Analyzing and evaluating:

In addition to presenting information, a report essay also aims to analyze and evaluate the data. This involves critically examining the evidence, assessing its strengths and weaknesses, and drawing conclusions based on logical reasoning and analysis. The purpose is to provide a balanced and objective perspective on the topic, allowing readers to understand its implications and significance.

Addressing a specific audience:

Another important aspect of understanding the purpose of a report essay is considering the target audience. Whether it is written for academic purposes, professional reasons, or a general audience, the tone and style of the essay may vary. The purpose is to effectively communicate with the intended readers, ensuring that the content is relevant and engaging.

Emphasizing clarity and organization:

Lastly, the purpose of a report essay is to emphasize clarity and organization. It should be well-structured, with a logical flow of ideas and information. The purpose is to ensure that readers can easily navigate through the essay, grasping the main points and arguments. Clear headings, subheadings, and a coherent paragraph structure can contribute to the overall effectiveness of the essay.

By understanding the purpose of a report essay, you can approach the writing process with a clear direction and focus. Keeping in mind the objectives discussed in this section will help you create a well-written and impactful report essay that reaches its intended audience.

Conducting Thorough Research

Immersion in the subject matter is the first key to successful research. To truly understand and convey the nuances of the topic, it is crucial to immerse oneself in it, allowing ideas and concepts to permeate one’s mind. Reading extensively, exploring various perspectives, and engaging with reliable sources creates a web of knowledge that forms the basis for the report essay.

Verification and validation are vital aspects of conducting thorough research. It is crucial to critically evaluate the sources of information, ensuring their credibility and reliability. Distinguishing between reputable scholarly articles, academic journals, reputable websites, and anecdotal sources is essential to present a balanced and accurate report. Additionally, cross-referencing information and verifying facts help to fortify the integrity of the essay’s content.

Unearthing the unconventional is another aspect of comprehensive research. Going beyond the usual sources and exploring alternative viewpoints can uncover valuable insights and add a unique perspective to the report. Seeking out lesser-known experts, delving into niche publications, and analyzing unconventional data can make the essay stand out and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Organizational prowess plays a crucial role in the research process. Creating an efficient system for storing and organizing gathered information is imperative to avoid the chaos of mismanaged data. Utilizing digital tools, such as note-taking apps or citation managers, can streamline the research process and enable easy retrieval of information during the writing stage.

Iteration and adaptation are essential components of thorough research. As new information is discovered and insights develop, it is crucial to iterate and adapt the research approach accordingly. Remaining open to new ideas and adjusting the research methodology ensures that the essay remains dynamic, robust, and relevant.

In conclusion, conducting thorough research is the cornerstone of writing a successful report essay. Through immersion, verification, exploration, organization, and adaptation, researchers can lay the groundwork for a well-informed and impactful piece of writing. By valuing the research process and committing to its intricacies, writers can elevate their essays to a realm of academic excellence.

Organizing Your Thoughts

When starting a writing project, it is essential to have a clear and organized plan in order to effectively convey your ideas. By structuring your thoughts in a logical and coherent manner, you can ensure that your report essay is engaging and easy to follow.

One effective way to organize your thoughts is by creating an outline. This involves breaking down the main points or arguments you want to make and arranging them in a hierarchical order. You can use bullet points or numbers to denote the different levels of importance or relevance. This visual representation of your ideas will serve as a roadmap for your report essay, guiding both you and your readers through the content.

Another method of organizing your thoughts is utilizing mind maps or concept maps. These tools allow you to visually connect related ideas and concepts, helping you to identify connections and patterns. Mind maps can be particularly useful when brainstorming or generating ideas, as they encourage free association and creativity.

In addition to these visual aids, it is essential to also consider the flow of your thoughts within the report essay itself. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea, followed by supporting details and evidence. Transitions between paragraphs should be smooth and logical, helping to guide the reader through the progression of your thoughts.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the overall structure of your report essay. Typically, an introduction should provide background information and a thesis statement, outlining the main argument or purpose of the essay. The body paragraphs should then present and support your main points or arguments, while a conclusion should summarize your findings and restate your thesis in a clear and concise manner.

In conclusion, organizing your thoughts is a crucial step in the writing process. By creating an outline, utilizing visual aids, ensuring flow within paragraphs, and considering the overall structure, you can effectively convey your ideas in a coherent and engaging manner. This organizational approach will not only make the writing process easier, but also enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your report essay.

Structuring Your Essay

Arranging the content of your essay is key to ensuring a cohesive and logical flow of ideas. A well-structured essay not only makes it easier for the reader to understand your arguments, but also demonstrates your ability to organize and communicate your thoughts effectively.

When structuring your essay, it is important to consider the overall framework, the arrangement of paragraphs, and the use of headings and subheadings to guide the reader. A clear and logical structure helps to keep your ideas organized and makes it easier for the reader to follow your line of reasoning.

One common approach to structuring an essay is the introduction-body-conclusion framework. In the introduction, you should provide a brief overview of your topic and present your thesis statement, which outlines the main argument or point of your essay. The body paragraphs should present the supporting evidence and arguments for your thesis, with each paragraph focusing on a specific idea or piece of evidence. Finally, the conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis in a way that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

In addition to the overall structure, you can also enhance the clarity of your essay by using headings and subheadings. These help to break up the text and provide a clear hierarchy of ideas. Headings should be concise and descriptive, giving the reader an idea of what each section will cover. Subheadings can be used within each section to further divide the content and provide a more detailed breakdown of your arguments or evidence.

Another important aspect of structuring your essay is the arrangement and flow of paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea and be connected to the previous and following paragraphs through transitions. Transitions help to guide the reader from one idea to the next, creating a smooth and coherent progression of thoughts. Examples of transition words and phrases include “however,” “in contrast,” “on the other hand,” and “furthermore.”

In summary, structuring your essay is essential for organizing and effectively conveying your ideas. By following a clear framework, using headings and subheadings, and ensuring a logical flow of paragraphs, you can create a well-structured essay that engages the reader and supports your arguments effectively.

Editing and Proofreading Your Work

Perfecting your written work is just as important as the writing process itself. After you have completed your essay or report, it is crucial to spend time editing and proofreading your work to ensure it is clear, concise, and free of errors.

Editing involves reviewing and revising your work for clarity, organization, and overall coherence. This step allows you to enhance the flow of your ideas, structure your arguments effectively, and eliminate any unnecessary or repetitive information. Additionally, it gives you the opportunity to improve the overall readability and engagement of your work for your intended audience.

Proofreading, on the other hand, focuses on correcting grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. This stage involves meticulously checking your written piece for any mistakes and making necessary edits. By carefully proofreading your work, you can ensure that it is polished and professional, demonstrating your attention to detail and commitment to producing quality content.

When editing and proofreading, it is essential to take a step back and approach your work with a fresh perspective. Give yourself enough time between writing and editing to gain a new outlook and allow errors and inconsistencies to become more noticeable.

During the editing process, read through your work attentively and identify areas that need improvement. Look for clarity issues, awkward sentence structures, or illogical transitions. Consider the overall organization and coherence of your ideas and make any necessary adjustments to enhance the flow of your work.

When proofreading, pay close attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Use spell check tools as a starting point, but be aware that they may not catch all errors and can sometimes even introduce new ones. Read your work aloud to identify any awkward phrasing or missing words. Consider seeking the assistance of a trusted friend or colleague to provide a fresh set of eyes and offer constructive feedback.

To ensure the utmost accuracy in your editing and proofreading, take advantage of the resources available to you. Use style guides and dictionaries to verify correct usage, spelling, and punctuation. Consult grammar reference books or reputable online sources to address specific grammar or usage questions.

By devoting time and attention to meticulously edit and proofread your work, you can elevate your essay or report to a higher level of professionalism and ensure that your message is communicated effectively to your readers.

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• Applying For Scholarships

Financial Need Scholarship Essay Examples (2023)

Jennifer Finetti Oct 2, 2022

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Many scholarships are awarded based on financial need. In order to win these scholarships, you must explain the nature of your financial need. In the guide below, we’ll explain how to write these types of essays to increase your chances of winning. Check out these scholarship essay examples for financial need scholarships.

How to write financial need scholarship essays

Here are some tips for writing financial need scholarship essays:

• Maintain a positive tone throughout the essay . You do not want to come across as self-pitying. Focus on ways you learned and grew from past experiences – how they made you stronger.
• Do not diminish other people’s suffering. This is a competition, but that doesn’t mean you should belittle your competitors. In fact, it would be better to say “I know there are many worthy candidates for this scholarship, but…” than to say “I have suffered far more than…” Show respect in everything you write.
• Frame your essay around a specific event. You may add other details if you have space to, but use one experience as the thesis for your essay.
• Avoid controversial statements and opinions. When discussing events from your past, do not belittle someone else or talk negatively about a group of people. You never know who will be reading your essay.
• Tell your story with honesty. Do not fabricate any details to make yourself sound needy. Your past and present circumstances will speak for themselves.
• Don’t try to sound philosophical. Some students will do this because they think it makes them seem smarter, but it rarely has that effect. Focus on proofreading and writing solid content. That is enough intelligence on its own.
• Discuss your career goals, if possible. You may not have room for this if the essay is short. If you do have room though, discussing your career goals will indicate a plan for the future. Review boards reward determination.

You know why you need financial aid. Tap into the key elements of your circumstances and use them to craft the perfect essay.

Many scholarships are awarded based on financial need. In order to win these scholarships, you must explain the nature of your financial need. In the guide below, we’ve provided examples of scholarship essays for financial need scholarships, along with some tips to help you write your own essay.

The fastest path to earning scholarships

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Example 1: “Provide a statement of financial need”

Some scholarships will simply ask for a statement of financial need. There are no parameters to follow. You’re left to write whatever you want. Typically, a statement of financial need is two or three small paragraphs. This will come out to roughly 150-200 words, but it could be slightly longer. Think of this as a cover letter for your scholarship application, highlighting the key elements of your financial need. Don’t build up to the thesis. Get directly to the point.

I am the first person in my family to graduate high school, and thus the first to attend college. Both of my parents dropped out of school when they were teenagers. Because of their limited education, they have always worked in entry-level positions, earning barely enough to put food on the table. My first job I got was at the age of 12 delivering papers, and I have worked hard ever since to relieve pressure from my family. I enrolled in Mississippi’s HELP program during my senior year, which covers tuition and fees at select colleges in the state. I also have a Federal Pell Grant to cover my housing. However, I still need funding for books, supplies, and transportation to campus as needed. I am an engineering student, and our classes come with high fees. My parents cannot contribute to my college expenses, and I cannot work much while I’m in school. This scholarship would help me avoid costly student loans that could take years to repay.  

Example 2: “Describe your financial need in 100 words”

This essay is even shorter than the financial need statement. It may be one of several short answer questions you need to fill out. Working with 100 words is tricky. That only leaves room for about 7-10 sentences, depending on length. Make compelling statements using the fewest words possible.

Also note that grammar errors and misspellings will be much more noticeable in this short essay. Carefully proofread your writing before submitting the scholarship application.

I got pregnant and dropped out of high school when I was 15. By the age of 20, I had two more children, and we all shared a one-bedroom apartment. I worked three jobs to pay the bills, but I never earned much. When my oldest started high school, I did the same. I got my GED at 29 and enrolled in nursing school. My financial status has improved now with a GED, but I’m still a single mom with three kids. I want to become a registered nurse to give my children a stable future. I appreciate your consideration.

Word Count: 100

Example 3: “Explain your financial need in 500 or more words”

This scholarship essay prompt is the opposite of the one above. You have much more room to discuss your circumstances. Talk about your family life, your income, and other restraints that contribute to your financial aid . Try not to throw too much in the essay though. You want the information to flow together seamlessly. Edit carefully, and give the readers a full view of your situation.

My name is Brandon Noviello. I am a sophomore on track to earn my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. I need financial aid because I do not have a family to contribute to my education. I was in foster care for two years before I aged out of the system, and now I am pursuing a degree completely on my own. I was raised by a wonderful woman who didn’t always have a wonderful life. My mother got pregnant after a sexual assault, but she was determined to raise a smart, successful man. She went through an accelerated program to graduate high school before I was born. She devoted the rest of her life to supporting me, both financially and emotionally. My mother’s family cut ties with her the moment she became pregnant. Life wasn’t easy for us, but I never wanted for anything. She always found a way to keep me fed, dressed, and in school. Unfortunately, she lost a long-term battle with depression when I was 16, and I was put into the foster system until I reached adulthood. I did not have a positive experience with foster care, but I admit, I had no desire to. My mother’s passing weighed heavily on my mind, and I felt an overwhelming sense of anger, regret, and frustration. There was one gleam of hope in my experience though. I had a great social worker. I fought her decisions every step of the way, and she still managed to find a family to get me through high school. My social worker was the only person I invited to my graduation ceremony.  She helped me realize how much one person’s efforts can make a difference in the lives of others. I was only one of countless children she had helped over the years. I researched how to become a social worker so I could help other children like me. My plan is to work with the Department of Human Services in the foster care and adoption division after I graduate. In order to make my dreams a reality, I need financial aid. I am working as a server to pay for food, utilities, and basic necessities, but I do not earn enough to pay for college as well. I go to school during the day and work at night. Furthermore, I have a maximum Pell Grant to cover most of my tuition, but I still need help with other expenses. I did not do well in high school as a result of my mom’s passing, but I have done well in college. I have a 3.25 cumulative GPA, and I have never made less than an A in a degree-related course. As such, I am committed to being successful despite my circumstances, and I want to help young people find that motivation within themselves. I look forward to working with children and teens in the foster system, so I can be the hope that someone else was for me.

Word Count: 498

YOU SHOULD ALSO READ

How to Write a Great 250-Word Essay

How to Write a Great 500 Word Essay

How to Write a Scholarship Essay Introduction (With Example)

How to End a Scholarship Essay

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• Scholarship Essay

Jennifer Finetti

As a parent who recently helped her own kids embark on their college journeys, Jennifer approaches the transition from high school to college from a unique perspective. She truly enjoys engaging with students – helping them to build the confidence, knowledge, and insight needed to pursue their educational and career goals, while also empowering them with the strategies and skills needed to access scholarships and financial aid that can help limit college costs. She understands the importance of ensuring access to the edtech tools and resources that can make this process easier and more equitable - this drive to support underserved populations is what drew her to ScholarshipOwl. Jennifer has coached students from around the world, as well as in-person with local students in her own community. Her areas of focus include career exploration, major selection, college search and selection, college application assistance, financial aid and scholarship consultation, essay review and feedback, and more. She works with students who are at the top of their class, as well as those who are struggling. She firmly believes that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can succeed if they stay focused and work hard in school. Jennifer earned her MA in Counseling Psychology from National University, and her BA in Psychology from University of California, Santa Cruz.

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How to Write a Report (2023 Guide & Free Templates)

You have a report due in a few days, but you’re still procrastinating like a pro.

Sounds familiar?

If you’ve been staring at a blank page, wondering how to write a report the best way possible, you’re not alone. For many, writing a report, especially for the first time, can feel like rolling a giant boulder uphill.

The good news is that from a first draft to creating reports that people love to read is a skill you can develop and polish over time.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who wants to up their report-writing game, keep reading for a 2023 guide and step-by-step instructions on how to write a report. Plus, learn about the basic report format.

You’ll also get access to report templates that you can edit and customize immediately and learn about a tool to make reports online (no need to download software!). You can also jump right into customizing templates by creating a free account .

What is report writing?

Report writing is a way of communicating information, data, insight, or analysis. It’s an essential skill that will come in handy in various settings, from academic research or diving into historical events to business meetings.

But creating a report can be a bit intimidating at first.

In its simplest form, report writing starts with researching and gathering all the information, analyzing your findings, and presenting it in a way that’s easy for your audience to understand.

Sounds easy enough, right? 

Well, there’s a bit more to it than that. We’ll guide you through every step of the process to write an entire report from a rough draft and data in the next section. 

But first, let’s get to know the different types of reports.

Types of reports

Reports come in all shapes and sizes, and the type of report you write will depend on your specific goals and audience. Each type of report has its unique purpose, format, and style.

The most common types of reports are: 

• Academic report – These include school reports, book reports, thesis reports, or analytical reports between two opposing ideas.
• Business report – Business reports range from annual reports to SWOT analyses . The goal of business reports is to communicate ideas, information, or insights in a business setting.
• Research report –  Research reports are often more scientific or methodological in nature. They can take the form of case studies or research papers. 

Learn more : 20 Types of Reports and When to Use Them (Plus Templates)

How to write a report without feeling overwhelmed

Breaking down the report writing process into three stages can make it much more manageable for you, especially if it’s your first time to create one. 

These three stages are: 

• Pre-writing stage
• Writing stage
• Post-writing stage

Let’s take a look at the steps for each stage and how to write a good report in 2023 that you can be proud of.

Stage 1: Pre-writing 

The pre-writing stage is all about preparation. Take some time to gather your thoughts and organize your main idea. Write a summary first.

Here are important steps to help you deal with the overwhelm of creating an insightful report. 

Understand the purpose of your report

Knowing your purpose will help you focus and stay on track throughout the process. Dig into the why of your report through these questions:

• Who is your intended reader? Are you familiar with your audience’s language and how they think?
• What are you trying to achieve with your report? Are you trying to inform, persuade, or recommend a course of action to the reader? 

Research your topic

It’s time to gather as much information as you can about your topic. This might involve reading books, articles, and other reports. You might also need to conduct interviews with subject matter experts.

Pro tip on how to write a report : Pick reputable sources like research papers, recently-published books, and case studies by trustworthy authors. 

Make a report outline

An outline is a roadmap for your report. It covers your title, introduction, thesis statement, main points, and conclusion. Organizing your thoughts this way will help you keep focus and ensure you cover all the necessary information.

While you can create a report without creating an outline, you could write a better report with an outline. An outline helps you organize your facts and important points on paper. 

Stage 2: Writing

Once you have completed the pre-writing stage, it’s time to write your report. 

Follow the proper report writing format

You will feel a lot of resistance at this point because this is where most of the tedious work of report writing happens. However, the process can be a breeze if you follow a proper structure and report writing format.

The structure of your report can vary depending on the type of report you’re creating, but the report writing format below can serve as a guide for anyone.

• Title page. This is the first page of your report and should include the report’s title, the author’s name, the date of presentation or submission, and any other relevant information, such as your name or the organization’s name.
• Table of Contents (TOC ). This section contains subsections of your report and their corresponding page numbering.  A well-written TOC will help readers navigate your report easily and find the information they need.
• Brief summary . This part provides an overview of the report’s particular purpose, subject, methodology, key findings, and recommendations. This section is often called the executive summary in corporate reports.
• Introduction . The introduction should provide background information about the topic and explain why the report was written. It should also state the aims and objectives of your report and give an overview of the methodology used to gather and analyze the data. Make sure you include a powerful topic sentence.
• Main body. The main body of the report should be divided into subsections, each dealing with a specific aspect of the topic. These sections should be clearly labeled and organized in a logical order. In most reports, this is also the part where you explain and present your findings, analysis, and recommendations.
• Conclusion. Summarize the main points of your report and provide a final summary, thought, or suggestions. Review your thesis statement. The conclusion also includes any limitations of the study and areas for further research or future action.
• References . This section should include a list of all the sources cited in the report, like books, journal articles, websites, and any other sources used to gather information on your subject.
• Appendices . In the appendices section, you should include any additional information relevant to the report but not in the article’s main body. This might consist of raw data, event details, graphs, charts, or tables.

With all these key report elements, your readers can look forward to an informative, well-organized, and easy-to-read report.

Pro tips: Remember to use clear and concise language in your essay. It is also required to follow a specific type of formatting set by your organization or instructor.

Plus, use the active voice when you can because it helps improve clarity. To write a report essay in a passive voice makes it sound less concise.

Reports should usually be written in the third person.

Edit and proofread the article

Once you have completed your first essay draft, take some time to edit and proofread your work. Look for spelling mistakes and grammar errors, as well as any areas where the flow of your article could be improved. Review your topic sentence.

If hiring a professional editor isn’t possible, have a colleague or someone else read your rough draft and provide feedback. You can also use tools like Grammarly and the Hemingway App . 

Stage 3: Post-writing

You’re almost there! This stage is about finalizing your report and ensuring it is ready to be shared. 

Format your report

Ensure your report is formatted correctly, with clear and easy-to-read fonts, headings, and subheadings.

Incorporate visuals

Adding visuals to your report article is another great way to help your audience understand complex information more easily.

From charts to illustrations, the right visual can help highlight and explain key points, events, trends, and patterns in your data, making it easier for the reader to interpret the information.

Want to check out more templates? Get access to the template gallery today .

However, it’s important to use visuals sparingly and ensure they are relevant and effectively support the texts. You will learn more about effectively incorporating visuals into your report as you scroll down below to the next sections. 

Share your report

Once your report is complete, share it with your audience. This might involve submitting it to your boss, presenting it to a group, or sharing it online.

A final note for this section: Remember to take your time, stay organized, and most importantly, have fun! Writing a report can be a rewarding experience, especially if you get positive feedback when you present.

How to add visuals to your report

Adding visuals to your report is more than just putting a graph or chart for every piece of information.

There are no hard and fast rules but use the pointers below as guidelines:

• Each visual in your report should have a purpose. Don’t just add a pie chart or bar graph for the sake of adding one. Your visual of choice should offer clarity to readers that’s impossible to achieve with words alone. Piktochart’s report maker lets you search for free stock images and illustrations to add to any page with drag and drop.
• Add captions, legends, or arrows to your visuals when possible. For more technical reports, graphics are either Tables or Figures. Number them in order of appearance (Figure 1, Figure 2, Table 1, etc.) and give each a descriptive title.
• Place the visual close to the relevant text on the page.
• Document the source of the visual, citing it in both the caption and references section if necessary.
• Make the graphic stand out with colors, borders, boxes, spacing, and frames.

Learn more : How to Improve Your Data Visualization Design in 6 Steps 

Write reports like a pro with Piktochart’s easy-to-edit report templates

Creating reports from scratch can be time-consuming. The great news is you don’t have to make reports from scratch like how it used to be in the 90s and early 2000s. Organizations of all shapes and sizes now understand that you can also create the perfect report with the help of templates.

For example, Piktochart offers a variety of fully customizable templates, allowing you to easily add your branding, colors, and text within the online editor. You can visualize your thesis statement and first draft in less than an hour. It’s also possible to start writing directly in the tool, adding graphics page by page.

These templates range from reports for school presentations to sales reports. By editing them, you can create professional-looking reports without the hassle of formatting and design.

Here are some examples of Piktochart’s professionally-designed templates. If you can’t pick one that matches your report writing format and needs, create a free Piktochart account to get access to more templates. 

Survey report template 

This survey report template includes clear visualizations, making your report findings easier to understand. From customer surveys to employee satisfaction reports, this template is quite versatile. 

Research report template 

This research report template is perfect for anyone looking to create a thorough and professional research report. The template includes all the necessary sections to help you easily organize your research and present your findings in a concise document.

Corporate report template 

Looking for a corporate report template example with an editable table of contents and foreword? This template is the perfect fit!

Whether you’re presenting to investors or sharing information with your team, this corporate report template will help you create a polished and informative executive summary for any corporate organization.

Case study report template

Whether you’re conducting a business case study or an academic case study, this case study report template can help you earn your readers’ trust. This template is specifically designed with fashion as its main theme, but you can edit the photos and details to make it more on-brand with your niche.

Marketing report template

Use this template to create comprehensive marketing reports. The template includes editable sections for social media, data from search engines, email marketing, and paid ads. 

Financial report template 

With this customizable finance report template, you don’t need to make a financial report from scratch. Once you’ve written your content, save your report in PDF or PNG formats.

Annual report template 

This annual report template is the right template for creating a professional and informative executive summary of your organization’s performance over the past year. This template was designed for HR annual reports, but you can also repurpose it for other types of yearly reports. 

See more report templates by creating a free Piktochart account . 

Quick checklist for better report writing

Before you submit or present your report, use the quick checklist below to help ensure that your report is well-structured, accurate, clear, and properly cited. Most of all, you must ensure that your report meets your audience’s expectations and has all the information and details they need. 

Purpose and audience

• Does the report address its purpose and meet the needs of the intended audience?

Structure and organization

• Is the material appropriately arranged in sections?
• Have irrelevant details been removed?

Accuracy and analysis

• Has all the material been checked for accuracy?
• Are graphs and tables clearly labeled? Check the page numbers too.
• Is the data in graphs or tables analyzed and explained in words?
• Does the discussion or conclusion show how the results relate to the objectives mentioned in the introduction?
• Have the results been compared with existing research from the literature survey?

Writing style and clarity

• Is the report written in a tone that’s indicated in the brand style guide (for corporate reports)? Does it avoid colloquialisms or contractions? 
• Does it follow the organization’s specific guidelines for writing style? 
• Is it jargon-free and clearly written? Have you translated technical terms into simpler words?
• Use the active voice when you can because it helps improve clarity. A written report in a passive voice may make it sound less concise. 

Acknowledgment and citation

• Have all ideas and event data taken from or inspired by someone else’s work been acknowledged with a reference?
• Have all illustrations and figures taken from someone else’s work been cited correctly?

Proofreading

• Has the report been carefully proofread for typos, spelling errors, and grammatical mistakes?

Make engaging and effective reports quickly with Piktochart

Writing a report is a must-have skill for anyone looking to communicate more effectively in their personal and professional lives. 

With the steps we’ve provided in this guide, anyone can learn how to write a report that is informative, engaging, and comprehensive.

Plus, the free templates we highlighted are valuable for individuals looking to create reports quickly and efficiently. They can also be used to transform a longer report filled with texts into something more engaging and easy to digest.

Sign up for a free Piktochart account today, and look forward to writing reports with its library of modern, customizable report templates. 

Piktochart offers professionally designed templates for all your visual communication needs. It is your one-stop shop for presentations , posters , logos , email signatures , infographics , and more. Customize all templates according to your brand assets in seconds. Get started for free today.

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How to Write a Statement of Financial Need

Gabriel Jimenez-Ekman is a content editor and writer at Scholarships360. He has managed communications and written content for a diverse array of organizations, including a farmer’s market, a concert venue, a student farm, an environmental NGO, and a PR agency. Gabriel graduated from Kenyon College with a degree in sociology.

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Prior to coming to Scholarships360 for her first internship in 2022, Savannah utilized her campus publications by joining various fashion publications that are offered at Ohio University. One of those publications is Thread Magazine, where Savannah has had the opportunity to work on articles related to world-wide related fashion news and events, as well as articles closer to home, such as a fashion piece on Athens hometown-hero Joe Burrow. This year, Savannah also had the opportunity to be a content writing intern for Aiken House, as well as a section editor for Southeast Ohio Magazine. In 2023, Savannah served as the Chapter President of her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. These collective experiences, as well as her experience currently working for Ohio University’s Undergraduate Admissions, has led her to Scholarships360 and aided in her passion for helping students better understand the college admissions process and financial aid. In her free time, Savannah enjoys horseback riding, watching Formula One races, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family. Savannah will graduate from Ohio University in May 2024 with a degree in Journalism News and Information and a certificate in Italian Studies.

Caitlyn Cole is a college access professional with a decade of experience in non-profit program and project management for college readiness and access organizations.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Many students want to know how to write a statement of financial need since it is a challenge. Deciding what is appropriate to include or omit can make all the difference, so it’s also especially important that you use your words economically and effectively.

What is a Statement of Financial Need?

College is an investment, but for many students financial aid may not be enough to cover the cost. Because of this, students may find themselves needing to write a statement of financial need, which is a brief statement explaining your financial situation. Generally, the statement of financial need will go beyond what is captured by the FAFSA or CSS profile.

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to show you how to write a statement of financial need.

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How we organized this article.

We’ll start with a “Do’s and Don’ts” list. This list will answer questions you may have about which details to include in your statement. Once you’ve got an idea of what should be included, we’ll show you a general template for writing these statements, including some examples. This will help you illustrate your points thoroughly while staying under the word limit. We also included some relevant FAQs just in case you had a few more questions. 

Related: Top need based scholarships

What to include in your statement

• A quick rundown of your family’s employment situation. This includes who in the family is working, what type of job they hold, and if you are working to help support your education or to help support your family
• Whether you are a first-generation college student
• If you or your parents are immigrants or refugees
• Whether you or your parents speak English as a second language, or do not speak English at all
• If you were raised by a single parent, or in a foster home
• Any extenuating circumstances that could be affecting your family’s finances, such as medical issues or job loss. Any recent shortfall in your family’s financial situation is worth mentioning
• If you are a member of any minority group (for many colleges, recruiting underrepresented students is an institutional priority as they seek to create a diverse community).
• Opportunities that you would be able to accept if the scholarship helped meet your financial need. An example would be if you are pursuing an unpaid or low-paying internship over the summer, but needed to earn money to help pay for next semester’s tuition

What to avoid in your statement

• Try to avoid a negative or dramatic tone. Even if your financial situation is stressful, try not to communicate that stress in your statement. It’s best to let the facts speak for themselves
• Avoid comparing your situation with the situations of others. Remember, this essay is about you, and why someone in your situation could benefit from the scholarship
• Avoid focusing too much on tangential details. Try to only include the details that are immediately relevant to your ability to further your education. For example, if your family has experienced a financial shortfall because your father lost his job, you don’t need to go into details of your father’s business or his chance of being re-hired. You need only to mention that it has led to your family receiving less than their projected income for the year, and that this impacts your ability to pay for college

Related: What’s the best scholarship essay format?

Now that you know what to include in your essay, you’re ready to start writing your statement of financial need. This can be done by following a step-by-step process:

Create an outline

Write your introduction.

• Format your essay with body paragraphs

Finish with a strong conclusion

Let’s get started with the first step…

To get started with your outline, try writing out a bullet-point list of the details you’d like to include in your essay. Include all of the details that emphasize your financial need. This includes demographic information, your parents’ employment, and any extenuating circumstances your family is experiencing. Once you have that list, use it as a guide to help format the statement of financial need.

See also: How to write a 250 word essay

In your first sentence, introduce yourself by touching on some key demographic points about yourself. For example, you could write:

“As a first-generation college student who was raised by a single parent, I have worked as a cashier throughout high school to help pay the bills.”

These are all points that do not require too much elaboration. They can be brought up together in the first sentence to give the reader an idea of what they will be reading. Use the rest of the introduction to quickly lay out the discussion points, saving the detail for later.

Related: How to start a scholarship essay

Formatting your essay with body paragraphs

Body paragraphs are your opportunity to dive into the relevant details. Elaborate on the points that you mentioned in the introduction to give a more vivid picture of why you are having trouble paying for your education. These include extenuating circumstances, parents’ employment status, and your employment status.

In addition, you can use these paragraphs to help illustrate your sense of financial responsibility. If you have a college savings account or have taken initiatives to help yourself secure the funds for college, mention them here. Emphasize that there is still a gap between what you are expected to pay and what you are able to pay.

Also see: How to write a financial aid appeal letter

Now is the time to discuss how the increased funding would create opportunities for you. You can mention the internship that you would take if you didn’t have to work all summer to pay your tuition, or describe how one of your other financial hardships would be lightened by receiving this scholarship.

The conclusion is where you make the scholarship committee realize what they could do for you by granting you the scholarship; once you’ve established your need, use the conclusion to illustrate how important this opportunity is to you. We hope that you now know how to write a statement of financial need. Best of luck!

Submitting your statement of financial need is not a guarantee of more aid

We should also mention that submitting your statement of financial need is no guarantee that you will receive more financial aid. While students can be hopeful that they will receive an adjusted aid package, they should be prepared for their situation not changing. 

In this case, students can turn to options like scholarships , student loans , or choosing a more affordable college option. 

See also: What to do if financial aid is not enough?

Key Takeaways

• A Statement of Financial Need can be beneficial for students who know they may not be able to afford college
• Always try to be positive when writing your Statement of Financial Need
• Structure your statement in an easy to read, concise way

Frequently asked questions about how to write a statement of financial need

How is financial need determined, what is proof of need, what documents can be used in a statement of financial need, how long should a statement of financial need be, scholarships360 recommended.

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Essay on Financial Literacy for Students and Children

Importance of financial literacy, an introduction to financial literacy.

We go to schools, colleges, universities to complete our educated and start earning our livelihood. We take up jobs, practise professions or start our own businesses so that we can earn money to make our living. But which of these institutions make us capable of managing our own hard-earned money? Probably a very few of them. 

Our ability to effectively manage our money by drawing systematic budgets, paying off our debts, making buying and selling decisions and ultimately becoming financially self-sustainable is known as financial literacy. 

Financial literacy is knowing the basic financial management principles and applying them in our day-to-day life. 

Financial Literacy – What does it Involve? 

From simple practices like keeping a track of our expenses and understanding the need to spend money if we like a product to striking a balance between the value of time saved and money lost, paying our taxes and filing of tax returns, finalizing the property deals, etc – everything becomes a part of financial literacy. 

Get the huge list of 500+ Essay Topics here

As human beings, we are not expected to know the nitty-gritty of financial management. But managing our own money in a way that it does not affect us and our family in a negative way is important. We certainly do not want to end up having a day with no money at hand and hunger in our stomach. 

Why is Financial Literacy so Important?

Financial literacy can enable an individual to build up a budgetary guide to distinguish what he buys, what he spends, and what he owes. This subject additionally influences entrepreneurs, who incredibly add to financial development and strength of our economy. 

Financial literacy helps people in becoming independent and self-sufficient. It empowers you with basic knowledge of investment options, financial markets, capital budgeting, etc.

Understanding your money mitigates the danger of facing a fraud-like situation. A few strategies are anything but difficult to accept, particularly when they’re originating from somebody who is by all accounts learned and planned. Basic knowledge of financial literacy will help people with foreseeing the risks and argue/justify with anyone learned and well-informed.

What should you read on / get informed about in Financial Literacy?

• Budgeting and techniques of budgeting
• Direct and indirect taxation system
• Direct tax slabs
• Income and expense tracking 
• Loans and debt – EMI management 
• Interest rate systems: fixed versus floating
• Business and organisational transaction studies
• Elementary Book-keeping and Accountancy
• Cash in-flow and out-flow Statements
• Investment & personal finance management
• Asset management:
• Business negotiation skills and techniques
• Make or buy decision-making
• Financial markets 
• Capital structure – owner’s funds and borrowed funds
• Fundamentals of Risk Management
• Microeconomics and Macroeconomics fundamentals

While there are various media to learn about financial literacy, we recommend that you join a short-term, weekend programme which helps you get financially literate.

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How to Write a Report

Last Updated: March 15, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Emily Listmann, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger . Emily Listmann is a Private Tutor and Life Coach in Santa Cruz, California. In 2018, she founded Mindful & Well, a natural healing and wellness coaching service. She has worked as a Social Studies Teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, and an SAT Prep Teacher. She received her MA in Education from the Stanford Graduate School of Education in 2014. Emily also received her Wellness Coach Certificate from Cornell University and completed the Mindfulness Training by Mindful Schools. There are 22 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 8,744,714 times.

When you’re assigned to write a report, it can seem like an intimidating process. Fortunately, if you pay close attention to the report prompt, choose a subject you like, and give yourself plenty of time to research your topic, you might actually find that it’s not so bad. After you gather your research and organize it into an outline, all that’s left is to write out your paragraphs and proofread your paper before you hand it in!

Easy Steps to Write a Report

• Choose an interesting topic and narrow it down to a specific idea.
• Take notes as you research your topic. Come up with a thesis, or main theme of your report, based on your research.
• Outline the main ideas you’ll cover in your report. Then, write the first draft.

Sample Reports

Selecting Your Topic

• The guidelines will also typically tell you the requirements for the structure and format of your report.
• If you have any questions about the assignment, speak up as soon as possible. That way, you don’t start working on the report, only to find out you have to start over because you misunderstood the report prompt.

• For instance, if your report is supposed to be on a historical figure, you might choose someone you find really interesting, like the first woman to be governor of a state in the U.S., or the man who invented Silly Putty.
• If your report is about information technology , you could gather information about the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data or information.
• Even if you don’t have the option to choose your topic, you can often find something in your research that you find interesting. If your assignment is to give a report on the historical events of the 1960s in America, for example, you could focus your report on the way popular music reflected the events that occurred during that time.

Tip: Always get approval from your teacher or boss on the topic you choose before you start working on the report!

• If you’re not sure what to write about at first, pick a larger topic, then narrow it down as you start researching.
• For instance, if you wanted to do your report on World Fairs, then you realize that there are way too many of them to talk about, you might choose one specific world fair, such as the Panama-Pacific International Exposition, to focus on.
• However, you wouldn’t necessarily want to narrow it down to something too specific, like “Food at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition,” since it could be hard to find sources on the subject without just listing a lot of recipes.

Researching the Report

• If you don’t have guidelines on how many sources to use, try to find 1-2 reputable sources for each page of the report.
• Sources can be divided into primary sources, like original written works, court records, and interviews, and secondary sources, like reference books and reviews.
• Databases, abstracts, and indexes are considered tertiary sources, and can be used to help you find primary and secondary sources for your report. [5] X Research source
• If you’re writing a business report , you may be given some supplementary materials, such as market research or sales reports, or you may need to compile this information yourself. [6] X Research source

• Librarians are an excellent resource when you're working on a report. They can help you find books, articles, and other credible sources.
• Often, a teacher will limit how many online sources you can use. If you find most of the information you need in the library, you can then use your online sources for details that you couldn’t find anywhere else.

Tip: Writing a report can take longer than you think! Don't put off your research until the last minute , or it will be obvious that you didn't put much effort into the assignment.

• Examples of authoritative online sources include government websites, articles written by known experts, and publications in peer-reviewed journals that have been published online.

• If you’re using a book as one of your sources, check the very back few pages. That’s often where an author will list the sources they used for their book.

• Remember to number each page of your notes, so you don’t get confused later about what information came from which source!
• Remember, you’ll need to cite any information that you use in your report; however, exactly how you do this will depend on the format that was assigned to you.

• For most reports, your thesis statement should not contain your own opinions. However, if you're writing a persuasive report, the thesis should contain an argument that you will have to prove in the body of the essay.
• An example of a straightforward report thesis (Thesis 1) would be: “The three main halls of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition were filled with modern creations of the day and were an excellent representation of the innovative spirit of the Progressive era.”
• A thesis for a persuasive report (Thesis 2) might say: “The Panama-Pacific International Exposition was intended as a celebration of the Progressive spirit, but actually harbored a deep racism and principle of white supremacy that most visitors chose to ignore or celebrate.”

• The purpose of an outline is to help you to visualize how your essay will look. You can create a straightforward list or make a concept map , depending on what makes the most sense to you.
• Try to organize the information from your notes so it flows together logically. For instance, it can be helpful to try to group together related items, like important events from a person’s childhood, education, and career, if you’re writing a biographical report.
• Example main ideas for Thesis 1: Exhibits at the Court of the Universe, Exhibits at the Court of the Four Seasons, Exhibits at the Court of Abundance.

Tip: It can help to create your outline on a computer in case you change your mind as you’re moving information around.

Writing the First Draft

• Try to follow any formatting instructions to the letter. If there aren't any, opt for something classic, like 12-point Times New Roman or Arial font, double-spaced lines, and 1 in (2.5 cm) margins all around.
• You'll usually need to include a bibliography at the end of the report that lists any sources you used. You may also need a title page , which should include the title of the report, your name, the date, and the person who requested the report.
• For some types of reports, you may also need to include a table of contents and an abstract or summary that briefly sums up what you’ve written. It’s typically easier to write these after you’ve finished your first draft. [14] X Research source

• Example Intro for Thesis 1: “The Panama-Pacific International Exposition (PPIE) of 1915 was intended to celebrate both the creation of the Panama Canal, and the technological advancements achieved at the turn of the century. The three main halls of the PPIE were filled with modern creations of the day and were an excellent representation of the innovative spirit of the Progressive era.”

• Typically, you should present the most important or compelling information first.
• Example topic sentence for Thesis 1: At the PPIE, the Court of the Universe was the heart of the exposition and represented the greatest achievements of man, as well as the meeting of the East and the West.

Tip: Assume that your reader knows little to nothing about the subject. Support your facts with plenty of details and include definitions if you use technical terms or jargon in the paper.

• Paraphrasing means restating the original author's ideas in your own words. On the other hand, a direct quote means using the exact words from the original source in quotation marks, with the author cited.
• For the topic sentence listed above about the Court of the Universe, the body paragraph should go on to list the different exhibits found at the exhibit, as well as proving how the Court represented the meeting of the East and West.
• Use your sources to support your topic, but don't plagiarize . Always restate the information in your own words. In most cases, you'll get in serious trouble if you just copy from your sources word-for-word. Also, be sure to cite each source as you use it, according to the formatting guidelines you were given. [18] X Research source

• Your commentary needs to be at least 1-2 sentences long. For a longer report, you may write more sentences for each piece of commentary.

• Avoid presenting any new information in the conclusion. You don’t want this to be a “Gotcha!” moment. Instead, it should be a strong summary of everything you’ve already told the reader.

Revising Your Report

• A good question to ask yourself is, “If I were someone reading this report for the first time, would I feel like I understood the topic after I finished reading?

Tip: If you have time before the deadline, set the report aside for a few days . Then, come back and read it again. This can help you catch errors you might otherwise have missed.

• Try reading the report to yourself out loud. Hearing the words can help you catch awkward language or run-on sentences you might not catch by reading it silently.

• This is a great trick to find spelling errors or grammatical mistakes that your eye would otherwise just scan over.

• Ask your helper questions like, “Do you understand what I am saying in my report?” “Is there anything you think I should take out or add?” And “Is there anything you would change?”

• If you have any questions about the assignment requirements, ask your instructor. It's important to know how they'll be grading your assignment.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://libguides.reading.ac.uk/reports/writing-up
• ↑ https://emory.libanswers.com/faq/44525
• ↑ https://opentextbc.ca/writingforsuccess/chapter/chapter-7-sources-choosing-the-right-ones/
• ↑ https://libguides.merrimack.edu/research_help/Sources
• ↑ https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/1779625/VBS-Report-Writing-Guide-2017.pdf
• ↑ https://www.library.illinois.edu/hpnl/tutorials/primary-sources/
• ↑ https://libguides.scu.edu.au/harvard/secondary-sources
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/taking-notes-while-reading/
• ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/how-to-write-a-thesis-statement.html
• ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/outline
• ↑ https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/engl250oer/chapter/10-4-table-of-contents/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/thesis-statements/
• ↑ https://www.yourdictionary.com/articles/report-writing-format
• ↑ https://www.monash.edu/rlo/assignment-samples/assignment-types/writing-an-essay/writing-body-paragraphs
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/5-most-effective-methods-for-avoiding-plagiarism/
• ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/using-evidence.html
• ↑ https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/writing-report
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/revising-drafts/
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/grammarpunct/proofreading/
• ↑ https://opentextbc.ca/writingforsuccess/chapter/chapter-12-peer-review-and-final-revisions/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/

About This Article

It can seem really hard to write a report, but it will be easier if you choose an original topic that you're passionate about. Once you've got your topic, do some research on it at the library and online, using reputable sources like encyclopedias, scholarly journals, and government websites. Use your research write a thesis statement that sums up the focus of your paper, then organize your notes into an outline that supports that thesis statement. Finally, expand that outline into paragraph form. Read on for tips from our Education co-author on how to format your report! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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