Developping Business Proposals
How does the textbook define paraphrasing?
Using your own words to express the meaning of the original speaker or writer.
Name one official documentation style commonly used in reports to cite work
MLA or APA
How does the textbook define a Direct Quotation?
“Verbatim restatements from another source”
How does the textbook define plagiarism?
To steal and pass off another’s ideas as one’s own and to “commit literary theft”.
What is one basic feature you should check in a completed report?
The accuracy of names, dates, and headings
What is generally the last thing covered in proposals?
Pricing/Budget
What is the most basic and critical component of any report
Thinking with a precision-oriented style
What Should always be provided at the end of a report/proposal?
A Reference List/Works Cited Page
Why should objectivity come before positivity in business reports?
Because reports need to be fact-based and fair first, and then framed in a confident, positive way without exaggeration.
When reviewing a report for fairness, what is the most important?
Presenting all relevant evidence even if it challenges conclusions.
Name 3 components of a business proposal
Cover page
Executive Summary
Current Situation
Specific Objectives
Deliverables Overview
Timeline
Results Enhancers
Pricing/Budget
To avoid plagiarism, you must document all references to the ideas of others. Name two ways this is done
Direct Quotations, Paraphrasing
What is the best way to avoid plagiarism?
To be original in your own thought (Your own ideas, conclusions, and recommendations found from your research)
Give an example of a less effective vs. a more effective tone in a business report.
Less effective: overly emotional or exaggerated claims.
More effective: balanced tone that highlights strengths but also acknowledges limitations.
Why should a writer confirm that a report’s conclusions and recommendations are supported by evidence?
To ensure its credibility and reliability
Proposals can vary substantially in length. What is the approximate range of how long a proposal should be?
From 1-2 pages to several hundreds of pages
In the pyramid model that demonstrates excellence in thinking for reports, what are the four layers from bottom to top?
Business problem
Facts
Conclusions
Recommendations
How should you best begin your (business) proposal?
By starting with a clear statement of the business problem or challenge
What are two risks of using an overly positive tone in a report?
It can sound biased or unrealistic, and it may reduce credibility with decision makers.
Which approach best tests whether the report is effective before sharing it?
Reviewing if it meets its stated purpose and provides clear recommendations
What is the most common mistake by proposal writers?
Leaving out details about deliverables and timelines.
Name 4 Things that will help you raise credibility within your report
Precise Facts
Supporting details for conclusions
Dealing with predictions and cause/effect statements
Citing your sources
What are three ways to raise the credibility of your report?
1.Supplying the facts with precision.
2.Providing supporting details for your conclusions
3.Carefully dealing with predictions and cause/effect statements
According to Chapter 14, how should writers balance objectivity and positivity to maintain both credibility and influence?
By grounding reports in accurate, unbiased facts (objectivity) while presenting findings and recommendations in a confident, encouraging way (positivity), so decision makers trust the report but also feel motivated to act.
What are 5 things to do before submitting a report?
Tailor the report to decision-makers' needs
Consider different perspectives
Review for accuracy and fairness
Review for typos, and mechanical errors
Gain input from others