Typing and Layout of the Research Report

After preparing the content of a research report, it is important to present it in a professional and organized manner. The typing and layout of a research report ensure that the report is readable, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Proper formatting also reflects the academic or professional standards of the institution or organization.

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Typing Guidelines

1. Font Type and Size:
   • Use a clear and readable font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
   • The standard font size is 12 points for the main text and slightly larger (14–16 points) for headings.
2. Line Spacing:
   • Use 1.5 or double line spacing for the main text to improve readability.
   • Single spacing can be used for footnotes, references, and tables.
3. Margins:
   • Maintain uniform margins: typically 1 inch (2.5 cm) on all sides.
   • Some institutions may require a wider left margin (1.25–1.5 inches) for binding.
4. Paragraphs:
   • Indent the first line of each paragraph or leave a space between paragraphs.
   • Ensure consistent alignment, usually left-aligned with a ragged right edge.
5. Page Numbering:
   • Number pages consecutively, starting from the first page of the introduction or as specified by the institution.
   • Use the bottom-center or bottom-right corner for page numbers.
6. Headings and Subheadings:
   • Use bold, italic, or underlined headings to distinguish sections.
   • Maintain a hierarchical structure (e.g., 1, 1.1, 1.1.1) for clarity.
7. Tables, Figures, and Charts:
   • Number tables and figures sequentially (e.g., Table 1, Figure 1).
   • Provide descriptive titles and captions.
   • Place them close to the relevant text.

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Layout of the Research Report

A standard research report layout includes the following sections in order:

1. Preliminary Pages:
   • Title page: Includes the title, researcher’s name, institution, and date.
   • Declaration / Certificate: A statement of originality or supervisor approval.
   • Acknowledgment: Optional, expressing gratitude to those who assisted.
   • Abstract / Executive Summary: A brief summary of the study.
   • Table of Contents: Lists sections, subsections, and page numbers.
   • List of Tables and Figures: Optional, if the report contains multiple tables or figures.
2. Main Body:
   • Introduction: Background, problem statement, and objectives.
   • Literature Review: Summary of relevant previous studies.
   • Methodology: Research design, data collection, and analysis techniques.
   • Results / Findings: Presentation of data using tables, charts, and text.
   • Discussion / Analysis: Interpretation and explanation of results.
   • Conclusion and Recommendations: Summarizes findings and suggests actions.
3. End Matter:
   • References / Bibliography: List of all sources cited in the report.
   • Appendices: Supplementary materials such as questionnaires, raw data, or additional tables.

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Additional Tips for Layout and Presentation

1. Consistency:
   • Maintain consistent font styles, heading styles, numbering, and spacing throughout the report.
2. Readability:
   • Avoid overcrowding pages with too much text or tables. Use white space effectively.
3. Professional Appearance:
   • Use quality paper if submitting a printed copy.
   • Ensure that figures and tables are clear and properly labeled.
4. Binding and Cover Page (for formal submission):
   • Follow institutional guidelines for cover design, color, and binding style.