Page 215 - DLIS007_LIBRARY AUTOMATION

Library Automation

Notes

Notes Any problems or limitations in the scope of the report should be identified, and a
description of research methods, the parameters of the research and any necessary
background history should be included.

In some reports, particularly in science subjects, separate headings for Methods and Results are
used prior to the main body (Discussion) of the report as described below.

11.3.6 Methods

Information under this heading may include: a list of equipment used; explanations of procedures
followed; relevant information on materials used, including sources of materials and details of
any necessary preparation; reference to any problems encountered and subsequent changes in
procedure.

11.3.7 Results

This section should include a summary of the results of the investigation or experiment together
with any necessary diagrams, graphs or tables of gathered data that support your results. Present
your results in a logical order without comment. Discussion of your results should take place in
the main body (Discussion) of the report.

11.3.8 Discussion

The main body of the report is where you discuss your material. The facts and evidence you have
gathered should be analysed and discussed with specific reference to the problem or issue. If
your discussion section is lengthy you might divide it into section headings. Your points should
be grouped and arranged in an order that is logical and easy to follow. Use headings and
subheadings to create a clear structure for your material. Use bullet points to present a series of
points in an easy-to-follow list. As with the whole report, all sources used should be
acknowledged and correctly referenced.
11.3.9 Conclusion

In the conclusion you should show the overall significance of what has been covered. You may
want to remind the reader of the most important points that have been made in the report or
highlight what you consider to be the most central issues or findings. However, no new material
should be introduced in the conclusion.

11.3.10 Appendices

Under this heading you should include all the supporting information you have used that is not
published. This might include tables, graphs, questionnaires, surveys or transcripts. Refer to the
appendices in the body of your report.

11.3.11 Bibliography

Your bibliography should list, in alphabetical order by author, all published sources referred to
in your report. There are different styles of using references and bibliographies. Texts which
you consulted but did not refer to directly could be grouped under a separate heading such as

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