 | |
FORESTERS'
TIPS, TECHNIQUES,
AND
TRICKS OF THE TRADE | | |
 2. Writing and Editing
2.1 Authors will have their own writing styles and preferences. The following
points are to be used as guidelines;
individuals should add their own to develop a checklist to be referred to when writing and editing the
report:
Emphasise the main thoughts. Structure sentences and paragraphs so that the main ideas
are at the beginning.
Leave out unnecessary words. Keep sentences as brief as possible, but maintain clarity.
Write to inform, not impress. The audience will judge the report by its content and presentation,
let them form their own
opinions.
Leave out the personal. Avoid “I” and “we”.
Use tables and graphs. Avoid sentences with lists of figures or data.
2.2 Once the main sections of the report have been completed, prepare an introduction
that clearly states the purpose
of the report, why the report is required, what problem is being addressed, what terms of reference
are being met.
3. Editing
3.1 Read the complete report considering the above rules and guidelines. Check
that ideas are expressed in a logical
order, that the meaning is clear and unambiguous, and that all parts of the report address the intended
audience. Rearrange
paragraphs and sentences to improve clarity. Restructure sentences and paragraphs, delete unnecessary
words and
phrases.
3.2 Get someone else, preferably someone who will be receiving the final report,
to read the report and to comment on
structure, content and clarity.
| 
