report-writing

# Report Writing Guide ## Report Structure ### 1. Title - Descriptive and specific - Include the scope or time frame if relevant - Example: "Advances in Protein Folding Since AlphaFold 3 (2024-2025)" ### 2. Executive Summary - 2-3 paragraphs summarizing key findings - Written last, after the full report is complete - Should stand alone — a reader should understand the main conclusions ### 3. Body Sections - Organize logically (chronological, thematic, or comparative) - Each section should address one sub-topic - Use inline citations [1][2] for every factual claim - Include data, statistics, and direct quotes where appropriate ### 4. Conclusions - Synthesize findings across all sections - Highlight key takeaways and implications - Note limitations of the research - Suggest areas for further investigation ### 5. References - Number references in order of first appearance - Format: `[N] Author/Organization, "Title", URL, Accessed: YYYY-MM-DD` ## Writing Style ### Clarity - Use clear, direct language - Define technical terms on first use - Prefer active voice over passive - Keep paragraphs focused on one idea ### Objectivity - Present evidence before conclusions - Acknowledge counter-arguments - Use hedging language for uncertain claims ("suggests", "indicates", "appears to") - Distinguish between facts and interpretation ### Citation Practices - Cite every factual claim, statistic, and quote - Use inline citations [N] immediately after the claim - Multiple citations for well-supported claims: [1][3][7] - Never present information without attribution ## Formatting Tips - Use headers (##, ###) to create clear hierarchy - Use bullet points for lists of findings - Use tables for comparative data - Use blockquotes for direct quotes from sources - Bold key terms and important findings