The first step in any report or proposal is to gather the information that will be used. Expert opinions and hard numbers often form the core of many reports and proposals.

 Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure that your findings are accurate:

• Collect Evidence: Gather data through observation, interviews, research, and data collection before you begin writing.
• Organize Your Evidence: Structure the information you collect for easy access.
• Maintain Objectivity: Keep your personal opinions separate from the evidence. Ensure that your biases do not influence the data you gather.

Typically, you will accumulate a significant amount of information, so it’s crucial to be selective about what you include in your report. Your selection should be guided by:

• The Purpose: Clarify what your report aims to achieve.
• The Audience: Consider what the readers already know and what additional information they require.

Unless you are a recognized expert on the topic, your opinions will hold value only to the extent that they are supported by evidence. The more evidence you gather prior to writing, the smoother your writing process will be.