Report writing is a type of directed writing in IGCSE English and Singapore secondary exams. In report writing, you present facts and findings in a formal, structured way: for example, a report on a school event, a trip, or an investigation. This guide explains what report writing is, when it is used, and how it fits with report format and report writing examples.

What is report writing?

Report writing means producing a report: a formal piece of writing that gives information about something that happened or was observed. It has a clear structure: title, by line, date, introduction, body with sections and subheadings, and conclusion (often with a recommendation). Report writing is formal and objective; you use past tense and facts, not opinions or slang. In IGCSE and Singapore exams, you might be asked to write a report as a student, prefect, or club member.

Report writing vs notice and letter

Report writing is different from notice writing (short announcements) and letter writing (different layout and tone). A report has sections with subheadings (e.g. Preparation, Activities, Conclusion) and is usually longer than a notice. For the exact report writing format, see our Report Writing Format guide. For report writing examples and report writing sample texts, see our Report Writing Examples guide.

How to practise report writing

Read the question and list every bullet point you must include. Plan your sections (e.g. Introduction, What happened, Conclusion). Write in formal language and past tense. Include a conclusion and recommendation if asked. Practise with past IGCSE or school papers under timed conditions. For one-to-one feedback on your report writing, book a free trial with an IGCSE English tutor on Tutopiya.

Report writing and the exam question

In the exam, the report writing question will give you a scenario and bullet points (or notes) that you must use. Your job is to turn those points into a well-structured report with the correct format. Read the question carefully and list every point; plan your sections (e.g. Introduction, What happened, Conclusion) and allocate words roughly so you do not run out of space. Write in formal language and past tense. Include a conclusion and a recommendation if the question asks for one. For report writing sample and report writing example texts, see our Report Writing Sample, Report Writing Example, and Report Writing Examples guides. For one-to-one feedback on your report writing, book a free trial with an IGCSE English tutor on Tutopiya.

Next steps

Use our Report Writing Format and Report Writing Examples guides for structure and samples. Practise report writing with past papers. Book a free trial on the Tutopiya learning platform for IGCSE English help.