Generally, when doing research or conducting experiments, you will have to record your observations in the form of a report. That report is referred to as an Observation report. In a nutshell, it is a document that is prepared after observing a person, situation, place, thing, or any other process. Mainly, to create an error-free and impactful observation report, you should follow a specific format and writing guidelines. In case, you have no idea how to write an observation report, take a look at this blog.
Here, we have shared the steps for writing an observation report. Additionally, we have also provided some effective observation techniques and observation report writing tips.
Continue reading this blog and learn complete details about observation report writing.
What is an Observation Report?
An observation report is a type of paper in which you will have to present your observations and interpretations on a particular subject or a research question. Generally, you can write an observation paper on a variety of topics related to any field. For example, your observation paper can be about a chemical process, the seed evolution, an object in your room, or any other.
When it comes to writing an observation report, first you must choose an ideal topic. Next, you need to take notes of your observations on the chosen topic. After that, relevant to your criteria, you should interpret your notes. Finally, you should write a well-organized paper by mentioning your observations and interpretations.
As said earlier, you must possess great observation skills to compose an observation paper. But remember, observing is not just seeing and hearing. You need to use all your five senses and gather data. Specifically, you will have to dig out background details about your subject to prepare an engaging and informative observation report.
Understand How to Record Your Observations
Data is essential for creating a brilliant observation report. Therefore, by using any method that is relevant to your subject, you need to collect data. Since observation report mainly relies on your observation skills, make sure to record what you see, listen, feel, and even taste, if it applies.
There are several data collection methods available for preparing an observation report. Here, let us look at some important techniques for recording your observations.
Notes
It is common for humans to forget the little details they observe. So, while you are on the field for observation, take a piece of paper and make note of all that you notice. All the field notes that you have prepared will be helpful for you at the time of writing your observation paper. Especially, when you have well-written notes, without omitting any, you can include all the observed information in your paper.
Pictures
A picture speaks a thousand words. So, during your field observation, click photos of an object, people, or a scene that you are studying. From images, you can collect more information for your analysis. Moreover, when learning how to write an observation report, it is essential to understand about its presentation.
Typically, by including pictures, you can add value to your report. Furthermore, images will stand as a strong proof for your analysis. Also, images have the power to engage the readers and grab their attention. Even, you can use your photo editing skills and add a new creative dimension to your observation report.
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Audio and Video Recordings
For observation report writing, audio and video recording is another effective method to collect data. Rather than using a note and pen to take notes, you can pick a device and record the audio or video. When you jot down the key points, you may miss to observe some important details of the given scenario. But, you will not face this issue while you record a video.
Audio and video recordings will give strong evidence to back up your points. Furthermore, it will help you collect additional insights during your research process. However, make sure to take consent accordingly.
Observation Report Preparation Steps
If you are unsure how to write an observation report, then simply follow the steps suggested below. It will help you in creating an intriguing and informative observation paper.
Choose an Ideal Topic
A topic is important for writing an observation report. So, first, choose a perfect topic according to your interest or the guidelines given by your university. Remember, the topic can be anything. For instance, you can observe a place, person, or situation and then present a report based on that.
Define the scope and purpose
Before you begin writing your observation report, make sure to define the scope and purpose of your report. Finding answers to all these questions will help you identify the scope of your observation paper.
- What is the primary objective of your observation?
- Who is your target audience?
- What are the expectations of your readers?
- How the readers will use your report?
If you have a clear idea about the purpose of your observation report, then you can concentrate on your writing style. In specific, you can easily figure out what tone to use and how to structure your observation report.
Collect data using appropriate methods
Next, based on the nature of your subject, choose an appropriate data collection method. Then, by using that method, start observing and gathering data. For data collection, you may use notes, photos, videos, interviews, surveys, samples, or checklists.
Remember, the data that you collect should be accurate, complete, and reliable. Moreover, it should stand as proof of your analysis. For your convenience, you may also organize the gathered data logically using tables, charts, graphs, etc.
Interpret the gathered data
Once you have collected data, analyze and interpret your data. Performing data analysis will help you derive a strong conclusion or recommendation on how to prevent or fix an issue. Note that, your recommendation should be realistic and clear. Furthermore, justify your recommendation with valid evidence.
When performing this step, try using your problem-solving and critical thinking skills to find out the key issues, patterns, trends, pros, cons, and threats in your data. Also, identify the discrepancies by comparing your data with the standards, expectations, and specifications in the field.
Prepare the observation report
Following that, begin writing your observation report using simple language. Particularly, to make your observation report easy and understandable to your readers, use active voice sentences and bullet points or lists. Also, structure your essay by including headings, subheadings, transitions, and signposts.
Keep in mind the report that you create should be well-structured, concise, and flawless. Never mislead your readers by using jargon, slang words, acronyms, and abbreviations in your report. Also, avoid using repetitive words, fillers, and unnecessary words or phrases. All these may dilute your message.
Proofread
Finally, after you finish writing your observation report, proofread it before submission. Check the content several times and rectify if there are any grammar errors, punctuation mistakes, or inconsistencies in the writing style.
To spot errors in your report, get help from skilled editors or use grammar checker tools. You may also get feedback from your friends or experts and revise your observation report based on their comments.
Remember, the final draft of your observation report that is ready for submission should be accurate, concise, flawless, and plagiarism-free.
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Know How to Format a Well-Structured Observation Report
To grab the readers’ attention, it is important to create a well-structured observation report. So, make sure to structure your observation report by including the following three essential sections.
Introduction
This is the opening part of the report that your readers will read first. So, write an attention-catching introduction.
In simple, give a brief introduction of the subject by mentioning the key points you have observed. Also, mention why you have selected that subject for observation. Be certain to specify details such as the place and time you have made the observation as well.
Introduction is the only way through which can hold your reader’s attention. Therefore, write a concise and engaging introduction. Most importantly, at the end of your introductory part, add a powerful thesis statement. Overall, by reading your introduction, your readers should easily understand what your report is all about.
Body
It is the core portion of your report. Here, you will have to systematically present your observations and interpretations. In specific, your observation should focus on answering who, what, when, where, why, and how.
When you write the body paragraphs of your report, highlight the main points of your observation with supporting evidence. This will add credibility to your paper.
Moreover, you can include multiple paragraphs to present your observation. But introduce a new sentence in each paragraph and discuss about it. Remember, all the body paragraphs should make sense of the thesis statement.
Conclusion
This is the last part of your observation report. Here, reiterate the primary point of your observation. Next, summarize the key findings of the report using your own words and wrap up the preliminary data collection.
In your conclusion, also explain the significance of your report and your aim of preparing it. Note that, your readers should gain some fresh insight from your study after reading your conclusion.
Observation Report Writing Tips
By following the steps suggested above, you can compose a well-structured observation report. Additionally, stick to the observation report preparation tips shared here.
- Write your observation report creatively by including colorful and attention-grabbing images.
- When you observe, never fail to look for the significance in the behaviors you see.
- Never prepare your report without evidence. For every change you observe, include samples and evidence.
- Do the observation yourself and write the report. Avoid plagiarizing the reports of others.
- During your observation stage, conduct certain experiments and find out what happens.
- In your observation report, mention the date and location of your observation, and the methodology you have used.
- When you analyze and interpret your observation, always use relevant theories.
- Make sure to compose an observation report that is formal, detailed, and informative.
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Wrapping Up
Hopefully, by now, you will have gained a better understanding of how to write an observation report. If you want to create an intriguing observation report, then strictly follow the steps and tips recommended in this blog. Initially, it might be challenging for you to prepare the report. But, regular practice will turn you into a master of observation report writing.
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