Explain why writing analytical reports are more challenging than writing informational reports, and how to determine which approach to use when writing the informational report

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: Writing analytical reports presents a greater challenge than writing informational reports, for three reasons. First, you're doing more than simply delivering information–you're also analyzing a situation and presenting your conclusions. Second, when your analysis is complete, you need to present your thinking in a compelling and persuasive manner. Third, analytical reports often convince other people to make significant financial and personnel decisions, and these reports carry the added responsibility of the consequences of such decisions. When planning reports for audiences that are likely to accept your conclusions–either because they've asked you to perform an analysis or they trust your judgment–consider using the direct approach, focusing immediately on your conclusions. This structure communicates the main idea quickly, but it does present some risks. A slightly different approach is useful when your readers want to know what they ought to do in a given situation (as opposed to what they ought to conclude). The actions you want your readers to take become the main subdivisions of your report. When structuring a report around recommendations, use the direct approach, as you would for a report that focuses on conclusions.