Headed sections · findings · impersonal tone · recommendations
What makes a C1 report?
A report presents findings and makes recommendations. At C1 it must be analytical, with impersonal passive voice, clear headed sections, and hedged conclusions.
Structure
Title → Introduction → Findings → Recommendations → Conclusion
Tone
Impersonal: findings show… / it was found that… / data indicates…
Length
140–190 words
Format
Section headings are required
Language for C1 reports
Purpose
The purpose of this report is to examine…
Findings
The data indicates that… / According to the survey…
Hedging
This appears to suggest that… / It would seem that…
Recommendations
It is advisable that… / Steps should be taken to…
Qualification
While these findings are preliminary, they suggest…
Passive voice is preferred: it was found / it is recommended / it has been noted. Avoid 'I found out'.
Report vs Proposal
Report
Describes what was found. Looks back at data or events.
Proposal
Argues for future action. Looks forward at what should happen.
Both
Use headed sections, formal register, and recommendations.