A special report is a detailed summary of research processes and findings based on systematic investigations. It should be a comprehensive presentation of information with first-hand verifiable data and should be formally structured with relevant headings and sections. Graphs and other visual representations are also common features of this type of document. Research reports can be classified based on two factors; the nature of research and the intended audience. A research report geared towards a general audience will focus on more relatable topics while a more specialized audience may require more technical and field-specific language.
A literature review is a key component of a special report. It provides a survey of existing research knowledge and highlights areas that are currently unexplored, which the researcher’s systematic investigation seeks to fill. A good literature review should include a brief introduction of the research problem and also provide a background of the research methods employed.
In journalism, a special report is a detailed and thorough investigation into a subject matter that can be difficult for journalists to cover. This often involves exposing wrongdoing or corruption and can require a higher level of understanding and expertise to tackle. Specialized reporting can increase a journalist’s credibility and provide valuable insight into complex subjects for their audience.
In finance, a special report is a customized financial report that deviates from standard format requirements of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). This type of report can be used to meet specific user needs, while maintaining professional standards and clarity. For example, a special report can be prepared to comply with reporting provisions from another entity or to satisfy regulatory or contractual requirements.
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