The Seven Deadly Sins of report writing

And how to avoid the wrath of a demon

Sloth – not making use of one's talents and gifts• Assume readers know

nothing about your project.

• Explain acronyms.• Make it easy for

readers to see how the evaluation relates to the aims or outcomes of the project.

Envy – sorrow for another's good • Include sufficient detail

and context for others to decide whether or not an innovation might work for them.

• As above, describe why different methods were chosen and how they were made use of.

• Include links to further detail.

Gluttony – inability to resist the temptation to over-indulge

• Use timelines, flow charts, process maps, or other graphical representations to present overviews of complex methodologies or findings.

• Readers don’t need to know everything the project ever did!

Pride – not acknowledging others’ good work & excessive love of self

• When describing an outcome or benefit include relevant evidence.

• Include sufficient detail so that readers can gauge for themselves the strength of evidence used.

• Include references.

Acedia – not taking care of something that one should

• Investigate actual or potential efficiency enhancements or cost savings.

• Pull in evidence from a wide range of sources.

Vainglory – unjustified boasting

• Talk about what your project has done or produced, but also describe AND evidence the benefits of this to stakeholders.

Greed – inordinate desire to acquire more than one needs

• Make recommendations that are realistic and evidence based.

• Demonstrate that the programme funding was well spent.

• Consider the programme team’s feedback, &

• Remember the project teams that weren’t funded,

• Or face the wrath of Asmodeus.

Adapted from a workshop session at the final JISC Curriculum Design Programme Meeting

Dr Rachel A Harristwitter: raharris email: rachel@inspire-research.co.ukweb: www.inspire-research.co.uk