SR House Style
Publication Templates
The text for both the reports and research findings must be entered into the automated templates which we have set-up:
To avoid formatting problems at the end of a project contractors are strongly advised to use the templates from the start of the report writing process.
The templates provide important and detailed information on the required style and layout of the documents. Details include the standard font and text size to be used (Arial 12pt), numbering and use of references in a document.
Plain English
Language used in both documents must be in plain English as many of the readers will not be experts in the subject area of the report, nor in the 'technical' methods used in the research. Some Plain English Essentials we expect to be addressed in these outputs are outlined below:
Plain English Essentials Avoid long and complex sentences and paragraphs to keep the content of the report clear and concise. Bullet Points, Footnotes, Diagrams, Tables Charts And Illustrations can make the report clearer and emphasise main findings. Avoid jargon - force yourself to look for an everyday term (e.g. use health, rather than 'health status'). Tenses should be used consistently throughout the report. Information relating to methods and research findings are best presented in the past tense, highlighting the fact that the research has been carried out and what was found. Ensure the style of writing is consistent throughout the report particularly if a number of writers have been involved with the drafting. Abbreviations of terms or acronyms (e.g. SAC for Scottish Arts Council) should be made clear to the reader at the beginning of the report, and then the abbreviation or acronym referred to in text throughout the remainder of report. |
The next section provides some key issues to consider when drafting a final report.