Extended Structure of a Technical Report

A comprehensive technical report is divided into three main parts: Front Matter, Body, and Terminal Section.

1. Front Matter (Preliminary Section)

This section introduces the report and provides navigation tools.

a) Preface

  • Placed before the main text.
  • Explains the background, motivation, and purpose of the report.
  • May mention challenges faced during the preparation of the report.
  • Example: “This report documents the findings of a project on renewable energy systems conducted from Jan–June 2025 at XYZ Institute.”

b) Acknowledgments

  • Expression of gratitude to individuals, organizations, or funding agencies that supported the work.
  • Example: “The author thanks Dr. ABC for guidance, and XYZ Labs for providing equipment support.”

c) Contents (Table of Contents)

  • List of chapters, sections, and subsections with page numbers.
  • Helps readers navigate the document.

d) Indexing

  • Alphabetical listing of important terms/topics with page references at the end of the report.
  • Example: “Energy efficiency, 56; Solar panels, 78; Wind turbines, 102.”

e) Keyword Indexing (Keyword List)

  • A list of key terms relevant to the report for quick reference.
  • Also useful for digital archiving and retrieval in databases.
  • Example: Keywords: Solar energy, Photovoltaic cells, Sustainable power, Energy efficiency.

2. Main Body (Core Section)

The central and most detailed section of the report.

  • Introduction – Objectives, scope, background.
  • Literature Review / Background Study – Prior research or standards.
  • Methodology / Experimental Setup – How the study was conducted.
  • Results / Findings – Data, figures, tables.
  • Discussion / Analysis – Interpretation and implications.
  • Conclusion – Summary of findings.
  • Recommendations (if applicable) – Suggestions for improvements or future work.

3. Terminal Section (End Matter / Back Matter)

Contains supplementary information and references.

  • References / Bibliography – Cited sources, standards, and literature.
  • Appendices – Additional material such as raw data, codes, large tables, questionnaires.
  • Index (if not placed earlier) – Complete alphabetical listing of terms/topics.
  • Glossary (optional) – Definitions of technical terms for non-expert readers.

Summary Structure at a Glance

Front Matter:

  • Preface
  • Acknowledgments
  • Table of Contents
  • Indexing / Keyword Indexing

Main Body:

  • Introduction
  • Literature Review (if any)
  • Methodology
  • Results
  • Discussion
  • Conclusion & Recommendations

Terminal Section:

  • References
  • Appendices
  • Index / Glossary

✅ This extended structure makes the report reader-friendly, searchable, and professional, especially when it is intended for wide circulation or archival.