Overview of Position Papers and Survey Reports

POSITION PAPER

A position paper is an essay that presents a stand on an issue to persuade the audience, focusing on one side of an arguable opinion. It requires a strong argument and is supported by empirical evidence while presenting an opinion that is subjective. The processes involved include choosing a topic, developing an argument by considering counterclaims, and understanding the audience's viewpoint.

ORGANIZATION OF A POSITION PAPER

  1. Introduction: Introduce the topic, provide background, and assert the thesis.

  2. Body:

    • Counter Argument: Summarize and provide evidence for counterclaims, then refute them.

    • Argument: Present your educated opinion with empirical support.

SURVEY REPORT

A survey report is an academic writing form that compiles research to provide information on a topic, structured around research objectives.

PARTS OF A SURVEY REPORT

  1. Abstract: Maximum of 250 words summarizing the introduction, purpose, method, product, and conclusion.

  2. Survey Report:

    • Introduction: Background and statement of the problem.

    • Methods: Researchers, respondents, and data gathering procedures.

    • Results: Presentation of results using graphs and tables.

    • Discussion: Data analysis and implications, with a restatement of the thesis and recommendations.

  3. References: Cited in APA 7th edition.

  4. Appendices: Documentation from the survey process.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SURVEY REPORTS

  • Use present tense.

  • Avoid direct quotations.

  • Maintain a formal and straightforward tone.

TYPES OF REPORTS

Reports provide detailed accounts in academia and workplaces, with types including:

  • Periodic: Summarizes results periodically.

  • Sales: financial report summarizing sales activities.

  • Progress: Documents project development.

  • Survey: Based on respondents' answers.

  • Budget: Compares projected to actual performance.

  • Feasibility: Evaluates proposed solutions.

TYPES OF SURVEY QUESTIONS

  • Open-Ended: Elicit detailed responses.

  • Closed-Ended: Provide specific answer options.

    • Demographic Questions: Collect background info.

    • Yes-No Questions: Simple binary responses.

    • Multiple Choice Questions: Select one from multiple options.

    • Checklists: Select multiple options.

    • Ranking Questions: Prioritize preferences.

    • Rating Scale: Evaluate on a specified scale.

    • Likert Scale: Measure agreement on statements.

WRITING AND PRESENTING A PROJECT REPORT

Suggested structure includes an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, conclusions, references, and appendices.
General guidelines emphasize avoiding jargon, checking grammar, preserving anonymity, and regular draft revisions.

REFERENCING STYLES (APA 7th Edition)

  1. Cite using the author's last name and publication year.

  2. For three or more authors, use "et al."

  3. Refer to organizational authors fully at first mention and abbreviate later.

  4. Use short quotes and ellipsis for omissions; format longer quotes as block quotes for clarity.