Begin your data report with an introduction that states its subject. You should outline the specific research question or questions posed, as well as provide sufficient background information so that your reader, regardless of scientific knowledge, will understand your study. This means exercising care with background material, including only what is relevant to your study. For example, your introduction might state the purpose of the study, followed by a short description of existing knowledge about your subject.
Write the data and procedures section that explains how you will proceed to answer the research question(s) stated in your introduction. In this section, you should explain what data you will collect, your collection procedures if needed, and how you will analyze the data. This section should explain any statistical or other analytical procedures you will use
Complete a data analysis and results section that displays the results of your analysis. This section, sometimes referred to as a discussion section, will comprise the largest part of your data report. When applicable, use charts, tables and other visuals to present your data analysis results. Charts and graphs should be as self-explanatory as possible, enabling the reader to understand the results without searching through the text of your report for explanation. Although the analysis and results section forms the main body of your report, it is important that this section highlights the most significant findings rather than simply reporting all of your data, which could place your report at risk of not being read because of its length.
Write a conclusions section that summarizes the key findings of your research study. If applicable, include any recommended actions that decision makers should take, based on the results of your study. Recommendations are important, for example, in social research studies, evaluations and other data reports intended to highlight a need for action by a decision maker.
Complete a title page and abstract for your data report. The title of your report should indicate, in 10 words or less, the content of your report. The abstract should summarize your overall study in about 100 words, using keywords that scientists or researchers in your field will recognize.