* What is the report about? (Subject matter)
* Why is the report being written? (Purpose and objectives)
* What questions should the report answer? (Specific research questions or issues to be addressed)
* Who is the intended audience? (Who is the report for?)
* What are the boundaries of the report? (What is included and, crucially, what is excluded?)
* What is the timeframe for completion? (Deadlines)
* What resources are available? (Budget, data access, personnel, etc.)
The ToR are typically provided to the report writer(s) before they begin their work. They serve as a crucial guide to ensure the report stays focused, meets the client's needs, and avoids unnecessary digressions. They are often included (or at least summarized) at the beginning of the report itself, providing context for the reader. A clearly defined ToR helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes later on.