Capstone Research Report

Executive Summary: (Also referred to as an abstract) this is a one-page, concise overview of the research reports findings and recommendations. This section is actually written last in the writing process.

Introduction: This is a general intro that describes the – “Who”, “What”, “Where”, and “When”, about the report. Essentially, it gives the reader the background information to your report.

(Main Body): This is where the bulk of what you are writing goes. It is not labeled “Main Body”; you will have to choose the appropriate title or titles for this section. This section covers the description about “How” the research project was carried out, and is usually referred to as the procedures/methodology, results, and discussion/interpretation of data sections. It is permissible to include some pictures, screen shots, etc., in this section. However, limit yourself to one or two examples in the main body section. If you include such examples, be sure to reference them in the text.

Conclusions: This is the section to write about what you have learned from your research.

Recommendations: This is the section to write about your recommendations or suggestions, as appropriate in light of what you have learned from your research.

References: (Also referred to as bibliography) you may choose the style/method of listing your references, but please be consistent with your format.

Formatting:

 Main Text Size: The majority of the text in this assignment needs to be set in 12-point size. Please resist the temptation to mix and match point sizes. If you doubt your applications intentions, just select your text and insure that it is in 12-point size.

Text Spacing: For the body of the research report, set it for double spacing.

Spelling/Grammar Checking: Remember to do your spelling and grammar checking before turning your assignments in. When doing the spelling/grammar checking keep in mind that some words such as mush and must, woods and words, or here and cow, will not be caught by either check. To correct these problems, you will need to proofread your work.