FIRST STEPS

Before you begin, you must be very clear about what you're expected to do, so read your assignment very carefully. If in doubt, ask the person who's requested the report plenty of initial questions, such as:

• What subject matter should be included?

• What should I be trying to say?

• Who am I writing for?

• How long can the report be?

• When must the report be completed?

You'll find more specific questions to ask in the sections that follow.