# Determine the Purpose

Start by asking yourself some questions:
1. Why am I writing this?
To answer this question, you should determine:
> What specific information do I require?
> Do I need to explain known facts?
> Have I been asked to analyze a situation or recommend a particular line of ac tion?
> Do I need to review a course of action?
2. What do I want to achieve?
To answer this question, you should determine:
> Is the report meant to generate an action?
> How persuasive should I be?
> Do I need to come to a conclusion or make a decision about a specific matter?
Your “Purpose Sentence”
This is where you state your reasons for preparing the report; it can be written as either a statement or a question. Spend some time composing your purpose sen tence, and use these examples as a guide:
To determine ways to improve employee morale. (statement)
To design a new chain of command for the production sector. (statement)
Should new vehicles be purchased to replace the older models? (question)
Should the company provide day-care facilities for the children of staff? (question)