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.
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.
