Cover Letter

Dear Miss Reese:

Here are my recommendations and feedback on your problem-solving report.

Letter of Transmittal

Consider designing a letterhead for yourself, especially since you’re assuming that you are doing the report as a consultant.

Assumptions

Remember that assumptions cannot be proved. But if they are wrong, your report’s recommendation may no longer be valid. Limit claims that you cannot prove with certainty.

Writing Style in General

Try and begin most paragraphs with topic sentences. Always summarize the point of the quote before you give the quote. Remember that headings must cover everything under that heading until the next head or subhead.

Background or History

Formal reports usually have a section that gives the background of the situation or the history of the problem. Even though the current audience for the report probably knows the situation, reports are filed and consulted years later. These later audiences will probably not know the background, although it may be crucial for understanding the options that are possible.

Survey

Include a copy of your survey with the raw data. It’s OK to change the format a bit to make room for the data. Tell how you chose whom to study, what kind of a sample you used, and on what dates you collected the information.

Figure 2

Reorder bars in order of length—don’t simply repeat the order from the survey.

Thank you for the opportunity to review your document. I’ve enjoyed learning more about the basketball team, the workings of the Athletic Department, and sports marketing strategies. If you have any questions about my recommendations, please call me.

Sincerely,


Sharon Reese