How to Write a Report in Women and Gender Studies: A Step-by-Step Guide for Students

A report is a structured piece of writing that presents research findings, analysis, and recommendations on a particular topic. In Women and Gender Studies, reports often explore sensitive subjects, requiring careful handling of language and perspectives to avoid bias or offense.

Step 1: Preparing to Write the Report

1. Choosing a Topic

If your instructor provides a topic, ensure you fully understand it. If given flexibility, follow these steps:

• Analyze the assignment requirements, including word limits and guidelines.
• Select a topic of personal or academic interest.
• Define the scope of your research.
• Justify the significance of your topic.
• Assess available resources and feasibility.
• Ensure originality by checking existing literature.

Example Topics:

• The Evolution of Gender-Neutral Language in English.
• Representation of Women in STEM Fields.
• First-Wave Feminism and Its Modern Impacts.
• Gender-Based Violence: Global Trends and Policies.
• Workplace Challenges for Women in Leadership Roles.

2. Planning Your Research

• Identify required data types: literature, interviews, surveys.
• Determine background reading requirements.
• Assess library and database accessibility.
• Plan fieldwork if applicable (interviews, observations).
• Decide on data recording methods (notes, audio, digital tools).

3. Gathering Information

• Written Sources: Books, academic papers, credible online databases.
• Interviews: Experts, activists, scholars.
• Observations: Field studies, case studies.

Recommended sources:

• Google Scholar (scholar.google.com)
• EBSCOhost Academic Search
• GENESIS Feminist Research
• Psychology’s Feminist Voices

4. Evaluating Sources (CRAAP Test)

• Currency: Is the source up to date?
• Relevance: Does it align with your topic?
• Authority: Is the author credible?
• Accuracy: Is the information evidence-based?
• Purpose: Is there potential bias?

Step 2: Structuring Your Report

1. Title Page

Follow your institution’s guidelines for formatting.

2. Executive Summary

A concise (100–150 words) summary of the research, findings, and recommendations. Write this after completing the full report.

3. Table of Contents

Lists report sections with page numbers.

4. Introduction

• Presents the topic and research purpose.
• Defines key terms.
• Provides background information.

5. Terms of Reference

• Explains the research scope and objectives.
• Justifies the study’s importance.
• Summarizes the report structure.

6. Research Methodology

• Describes the research process.
• Details data collection methods.
• Ensures reproducibility of findings.

7. Findings

• Presents research results with supporting evidence.
• Uses tables, graphs, and statistics where necessary.

8. Conclusions

• Summarizes key research insights.
• Highlights significant findings.

9. Recommendations

• Proposes actionable solutions based on findings.
• Lists recommendations in order of importance.

10. Works Cited

• Follows the appropriate citation format (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

11. Appendices

• Includes additional data such as interviews, charts, and raw statistics.

Step 3: Editing and Proofreading

• Check Guidelines: Ensure compliance with assignment requirements.
• Verify Structure: Confirm logical flow and completeness.
• Fact-Check: Validate sources and accuracy.
• Refine Language: Maintain clarity and professional tone.
• Format Correctly: Follow prescribed formatting and citation rules.
• Use Grammar Tools: Grammarly, Hemingway Editor.