In report writing what does documentation mean?

In report writing, documentation refers to the comprehensive collection of materials that support and substantiate the claims, findings, and conclusions presented in the report. This goes beyond simply citing sources; it's about providing evidence and demonstrating the rigor of the research process. Documentation might include:

* Data: Raw data, spreadsheets, surveys, experimental results, etc., used to generate the report's findings.

* Sources: Citations of books, articles, websites, interviews, and other materials consulted during research. This includes a complete bibliography or works cited page.

* Methodology: A detailed description of the research methods used, including data collection techniques, analysis procedures, and any limitations of the approach.

* Calculations/Formulas: If relevant, the formulas and calculations used to arrive at specific results should be included or clearly referenced.

* Appendixes: Supplementary materials, such as detailed tables, figures, maps, questionnaires, interview transcripts, or code used for analysis, that are too extensive for the main body of the report.

* Software and Tools: Information about any software or tools used in data analysis or report creation.

* Version Control: For larger projects, a record of revisions and changes made to the report.

Good documentation is essential for the credibility and reproducibility of a report. It allows readers to understand the basis of the report's findings, assess the validity of its conclusions, and potentially replicate the research. Without thorough documentation, a report's value is significantly diminished.