I have difficulty applying a clear structure of chapters to my paper (E3-E5, E16).


A report consists of opening parts, a main body and final parts. Both the opening and final parts of a report include several ‘standard’ items. The main body of the report always consists of a number of chapters, (sub)sections, and (sub)paragraphs, but it is up to the author to decide how many of each and what the exact structure should be.

Opening parts (Skill Sheet E3)
The opening parts for a research report consist of:

1. Title page (required)
a. Copyright provisions (optional)
b. Dedication (optional)

2. Table of contents (required)
a. List of Figures/Tables (optional)
b. Foreword (optional)
c. Executive summary (optional)

3. Preface/acknowledgement (required)
a. List of abbreviations/acronyms (optional)
b. Notes on contributors (optional)
4. Introduction (required)

Main body (Skill Sheet E4)
Always organize a text according to an increasing degree of specificity: (1) chapter, consisting of (2) (sub)sections, which are composed of (3) paragraphs. The contents of chapters, sections and paragraphs should always be built up as a logical pyramid.

Make it clear to the reader what you think the function of a chapter of section is. Always do this in the introduction to the chapter or section. Even within a chapter, a short introduction can be very useful when you move to an additional issue.

The conclusion of a chapter or section is just as important as the introduction. In a summary:

• always give a brief summary;
• never add new material/information.

Final parts (Skill Sheet E5)
Standard parts of the final parts of a research report include:

1. Conclusion (required)
2. Epilogue (optional)
3. Glossary (optional)
4. Annexes (optional)
5. Bibliography (required)
6. Index (optional)

 

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