Summary

This module has taken you through the entire process for report/proposal writing from the initial planning stages to your final proofreading. Along the way through this process, you should have also reviewed parts of Module 1 and applied the techniques you learned there: techniques like prewriting, outlining, paragraph writing, drafting, and revising.

The importance of planning and organizing your thoughts and ideas for your report cannot be overemphasized. You should begin outlining your report with a clear idea of your purpose and main message. This will enable you to proceed to the next step in the planning process—outlining your document before you begin drafting.

Drafting involves two main tasks:

1. preparing each section of your document, like the introduction, conclusion, recommendations, and summary, and
2. composing clear and coherent paragraphs and correct sentences.

As you revise your report or proposal, be aware of the rules of mechanics used to ensure the quality and consistency of written materials at WHO. Be sure to use WHO-recommended reference texts, such as style guides, guidelines, and dictionaries or the resources recommended or required by your donors (e.g. the Gates Foundation, Bloomberg Foundation, the European Commission). The final stage of reviewing your document involves a close look at the details of style and mechanics.

© WHO 2011