Structuring an accounting essay or report.
- Activity
- suggested solution
- You were asked to think of the main section headings you would use for an essay or report on an accounting topic.
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| Firstly, you should write an introduction to the topic. It should not be too long, or repeat the question, but should 'set the scene' and give background information for the reader. |
| Next, you present your findings, analysis and interpretation of the topic. It shoud be in your own words as far as possible and you must reference all your sources of information - even if you have rephrased them. This part can be broken down into several sections with headings - a logical progression through the topic is a good idea. If the question's in several parts, make sure your answer is too. |
| The final part of the body of your report should be a conclusion. This should summarise the main points discovered / analaysed. You should not be presenting new information here. If the question asks you to make a recommendation, this is the place for it. |
| Following your report, attach any appendices. These can be ratio analysis tables, data you have collected, questionnaire summaries etc. Refer to the appendices in your report, but only include them if they assist with understanding, otherwise you can just reference the data instead. |
| Last of all, give your list of references (bibliography). This should be presented in Harvard style. Make sure every reference cited in your report is listed here, and that everything that's listed here is cited. |
- Where else can I get help with essays and reports?
- Napier University Learning Information Service has a wide array of study skills available on http://nulis.napier.ac.uk/StudySkills/
- You can increase your mark by taking a few minutes to read over your work and correct mistakes. Look at the feedback sheet - if marks are allocated for a conclusion, make sure you have written one!
- Use this essay checklist to verify your work before handing it in.
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