Report introduction
When readers make time to read your report, they are likely to be squeezing this reading into a busy day filled with other tasks. They will want answers to a number of questions very quickly, such as:
In general, your introduction should strive to answer these questions. If you don't supply the answers, you run the risk of losing your readers' attention before they have really begun.
Why do readers need introductions? The English author, C.S. Lewis explained:
“I sometimes think that writing is like driving sheep down a road. If there is any gate to the left or right, the reader will certainly go through it.”
A clear introduction closes the gates, and helps the reader move smoothly through the report.