Reports in professional surveying practice take a variety of forms. The format chosen should suit the audience, purpose and complexity of the subject matter. The most common formats are set out below.
Letter Format
Used for brief reports or updates, often addressing a specific issue or request. Structured as a professional letter, including a clear salutation, body paragraphs setting out findings or recommendations, and a formal close.
Memorandum Format
An internal document used to communicate information or decisions within an organisation. Typically headed with To, From, Date and Subject lines, followed by concise paragraphs.
Narrative Format
A continuous prose report that guides the reader through background, analysis and conclusions in a logical sequence. Suited to complex matters requiring detailed explanation or where context is important.
Tabular Format
Presents data in rows and columns, allowing quick comparison across multiple items or time periods. Particularly useful for cost plans, schedules of condition or comparative valuations.
Combination Format
Draws on two or more of the above approaches within a single document — for example, narrative sections supported by embedded tables or appendices — to present information as clearly as possible.