Report Structure

An informative report presents facts and information in a clear, organised way. It follows a logical structure so the reader can find information easily.

1

Title

Clear and descriptive. Tells the reader exactly what the report is about.

2

Introduction

Introduces the topic and gives a brief overview of what the report will cover.

3

Body (with Subheadings)

Organised into sections with clear subheadings. Each section covers one aspect of the topic with facts and evidence.

4

Conclusion

Summarises the key points and may include a final thought or recommendation.

Formal vs Informal Language

Informative writing uses formal language. This means it sounds professional, impersonal, and objective. Understanding the difference between formal and informal language is essential.

Feature	Informal (avoid)	Formal (use)
Personal language	"I reckon..."	"It is believed that..."
Contractions	"don't", "can't", "it's"	"do not", "cannot", "it is"
Slang	"heaps of", "awesome"	"many", "significant"
Questions to reader	"You know how...?"	"Research has shown that..."
Vocabulary	"big", "bad", "stuff"	"substantial", "detrimental", "materials"

Using Evidence and Statistics

Informative writing is built on facts and evidence, not opinions. Including statistics, expert quotes, and specific details makes your writing credible and trustworthy.

WEAK

"Lots of people recycle these days."

Vague, informal, no evidence

STRONG

"According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 94% of households participated in recycling programmes in 2024."

Specific, formal, includes source and statistic

Tips for Using Evidence

• Use specific numbers and percentages where possible
• Name the source: "According to...", "Research by... found that..."
• Use recent, up-to-date information
• Explain what the evidence means, don't just include it

Linking Words and Cohesion

Cohesion means how well your writing flows and connects. Linking words (also called connectives or transitions) help the reader follow your ideas smoothly from one point to the next.

Adding Information

Furthermore, In addition, Moreover, Also, Additionally

Showing Contrast

However, On the other hand, In contrast, Nevertheless, Despite this

Showing Cause/Effect

Therefore, As a result, Consequently, This means that, Due to

Sequencing

Firstly, Secondly, Next, Finally, In conclusion

Other Cohesion Techniques

• Pronouns: Use "it", "they", "this" to refer back to something already mentioned
• Synonyms: Use different words for the same thing to avoid repetition
• Subheadings: Group related information under clear headings

Annotated Example Report

Topic: "The Great Barrier Reef" — Notice the structure and formal language.

TITLE & INTRODUCTION

The Great Barrier Reef: A Natural Wonder Under Threat

The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is the largest coral reef system in the world. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres, it is home to more than 1,500 species of fish and 400 types of coral. This report examines the importance of the reef, the threats it faces, and the conservation efforts being made to protect it.

Topic introduction Factual detail Report overview

BODY SECTION

Threats to the Reef

One of the most significant threats to the Great Barrier Reef is climate change. According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science, the reef experienced its sixth mass bleaching event in 2024, caused by rising ocean temperatures. When water temperatures rise above normal, corals expel the algae that give them colour and nutrients. This process, known as bleaching, can lead to coral death if temperatures do not return to normal. Furthermore, pollution from agricultural run-off and plastic waste continues to damage water quality.

Linking words Evidence with source Explanation

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most valuable ecosystems on the planet. While it faces serious threats from climate change and pollution, conservation efforts are providing hope for its future. Continued action from governments, scientists, and the public will be essential to ensure this natural wonder survives for future generations.

Summary signal Key points summary Final thought

Key Vocabulary

Informative Writing

Writing that aims to teach or explain something using facts and evidence.

Formal Language

Professional, impersonal language without slang, contractions, or personal pronouns.

Subheading

A smaller heading that organises information into sections within a report.

Cohesion

How well ideas are connected and flow together in a piece of writing.

Linking Words

Words or phrases that connect ideas (furthermore, however, therefore, in addition).

Objective

Based on facts, not influenced by personal feelings or opinions.

Worked Examples

See how to improve informative writing.

Example 1: Making language formal

Informal: "There's heaps of rubbish in the ocean and it's really bad for fish."

Formal: "A significant amount of waste has accumulated in the world's oceans, which has a detrimental impact on marine life."

Example 2: Adding evidence

Without evidence: "Plastic pollution is a big problem."

With evidence: "Plastic pollution is a growing global concern. According to the United Nations, approximately 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans each year."

Example 3: Using linking words for cohesion

Choppy: "Coral reefs are important. They protect coastlines. They support fishing industries."

Cohesive: "Coral reefs are vitally important for several reasons. Firstly, they protect coastlines from erosion. In addition, they support fishing industries that provide food and income for millions of people."

Knowledge Check

Test your understanding of informative writing. Select the correct answer and click "Check Answer".

Question 1

Which sentence uses formal language appropriate for an informative report?

"Tropical rainforests contain approximately 50% of the world's plant and animal species." "Rainforests are really awesome and I love learning about them." "There's tons of cool stuff about rainforests." "You won't believe how many animals live in rainforests!"

Question 2

What is the correct order for the sections of an informative report?

Conclusion, Body, Introduction, Title Title, Introduction, Body (with subheadings), Conclusion Body, Title, Conclusion, Introduction Introduction, Conclusion, Title, Body

Question 3

Which linking word shows contrast?

Furthermore Therefore However In addition

Question 4

Which of these would be the best subheading for a section about how rainforests help the environment?

"Cool Things About Trees" "Paragraph 2" "Why I Think Rainforests Are Important" "Environmental Benefits of Rainforests"

Question 5

What is cohesion in informative writing?

How well ideas are connected and flow together Writing very long sentences Using big, impressive vocabulary Including as many facts as possible