Referencing Guide Rmit

Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Business)
College of Business:
Guidelines for referencing and presentation
in written reports and essays
Version: 4
Approved: April 2010
Review date: Not later than December 2011
Contents
1. Introduction 2
2. Referencing 4
2.2.1 Paraphrasing
4
2.2.2 Direct quotes
4
2.3.1 Referencing internet sources
5
2.4.1 Printed material and multimedia
10
2.4.2 Electronic journal articles
20
2.4.5 Order of entries in a reference list
22
3. Plagiarism 25
3.1.1 What constitutes plagiarism?
25
3.1.2 What is the penalty for plagiarism?
25
4. Essay writing 28
A Step By Step Guide to Essay Writing
28
Step 1 Choose your topic
28
Step 2 Read the instructions, relating to your assessments as set down in your Course Guide
28
Step 3 Analyse the topic
28
Step 5 Starting your research
30
Step 6 Mind mapping
30
Step 7 Focus your research
30
Step 8 Draw up a detailed plan
32
Step 9 Writing the Essay
32
Step 10 Writing the first draft
34
Step 11 Editing your final draft
35
5. Report Writing 36
A step by step guide to report writing
37
37
Step 2 Read the instructions relating to your assessments as set down in your Course Guide
37
37
Step 4 Brain storm what do you already know about the issue?
37
37
Step 6 Mind mapping
37
38
39
Step 9 Writing the report
40
Step 10 Using your plan to start writing
43
43
Step 12 Formatting your report
44
Reference list 48
Bibliography 48
Glossary 49
Acknowledgements 50

Tables
Table Title Page
Table 1 Referencing styles type of author 6
Table 2 Referencing styles no author 6
Table 3 Referencing styles books 7
Tables 4a-d Referencing styles 10
Table 5 Order of entries in a reference list 22
Table 6 Other referencing systems 23
Table 7 Commonly used abbreviations in referencing 24
Table 8 Direct use of another person's work without citation 26
Table 9 Paraphrasing without citation 26
Table 10 Piecing together texts and linking them 26
Table 11 Integrating ideas from multiple sources 27
Table 12 How to avoid accusations of plagiarism 27
Table 13 Action/instruction words used in assessment tasks 29
Table 14 Mind mapping for essays 30
Table 15 Checklist for essays 34
Table 16 Mind mapping for reports 38
Table 17 Sections of a report 40
Table 18 Examples of the language used in the different sections of a report 45
Table 19 Formal versus informal language 45
Table 20 Report writing checklist 47
Table 21 Glossary 49

1. Introduction
The written word is the basis of business communication today, whether in a formal business report, a letter,
informal memo or email. As a business professional, you will be judged by how well and how clearly you use words
to communicate.
As well as teaching technical business skills in a broad range of disciplines, RMIT Business is also committed to help
you develop appropriate business writing skills for the University assessments you will be required to submit.
This document is intended for RMIT Business TAFE and undergraduate students, although postgraduate students are
encouraged to use it as a starting point. It details how to format your written work and demonstrates:
the differences between academic essays and business reports;
guidelines for their preparation;
how to ensure you meet the technical requirements;
how to cite references;
how to avoid plagiarism.
You will find a set of broad guidelines to help overcome common problems with grammar, formatting, and use of
abbreviations. This document is intended as an integral reference on matters of style and method. It will also help
you further develop your written communication skills.
The RMIT Business Guidelines are based on the Style manual for authors, editors and printers (2002), referred to
here as Style manual (2002) which is published on behalf of the Commonwealth of Australia, and is the
Commonwealth Governments preferred style. The Style manual (2002) can be used to provide guidance on areas
which are not covered in the RMIT Business document, but if there is any inconsistency you should follow the RMIT
Business document.
There may be certain other style requirements published in a course guide or indicated by the lecturer in charge.
Examples used in this guide are presented in text boxes to make them easy to follow.
Example of correct in-text
reference using quotes
Whilst this work has been developing in the USA it had very
different beginnings in Britain (Wright 1982, p. 51).
Additional support and assistance with essay writing, writing style, and referencing can be found by viewing the
Learning Lab <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
1.1 Getting started
Do not leave the task until the last minute. You are urged to consider the following advice in relation to written
assessments:
Start thinking about the topic as soon as it has been selected and list the questions you believe you should try
to answer.
Do background reading, but keep checking the set topic to ensure that you stay focused.
Place the topic of your answer within the appropriate context. For example, an essay question on the
macroeconomic policies of a particular country will require you to define macroeconomic before you can write
about policies in different countries. So you may need to complete background reading before commencing
the specific reading related to your written task.
What do you need to fully answer the question? Do you need to collect data, source more reading materials,
analyse new or existing data? Where will you source this information?
Allow time to secure essential references, remembering most libraries often do not have sufficient multiple
copies of references. Learn quickly to get the relevant information for your assignment, using the table of
contents, chapter summaries, indexes and reviews. Always record the details of the publications in full for
inclusion in your notes or plan in case you decide to refer to a source in your essay.
You should use all available research resources including the Internet and other electronic sources, to both
save time and allow you to conduct international research and data gathering from home or work. However, in
using these new technologies you must ensure that database resources, web pages, email, electronic
discussion lists, etc. are properly acknowledged (see chapter 3 for electronic document referencing).
1.2 Editing
Do not leave editing until the last minute, but leave sufficient time to rewrite work to improve your expression. Remove
irrelevant or redundant material. Refine arguments to be more concise and forceful, and to remedy any other
deficiencies.
Hint:
Often, the best way to ensure your writing flows systematically is to read your work aloud. Your natural
pauses become your punctuation and paragraph breaks, and sometimes, while reading aloud, it becomes
obvious what needs to be deleted and what is missing from your analysis.
1.3 Confidentiality
If you include confidential and/or controversial material and do not wish your essay or report to be viewed by people
other than RMIT staff, you should discuss this with your lecturer or course coordinator.
1.4 Referencing
What is referencing?
Referencing means acknowledging someone elses work or ideas. It is sometimes called citing or
documenting another persons work.
Referencing is a basic University requirement.
As an RMIT Business student, you are required to use the Harvard referencing system as outlined in the following
pages. This author date system is based on the Australian Government 2000, Style manual for authors, editors and
printers, 6th edn, John Wiley & Sons, Australia.
Note: The Harvard system has many variations. You must use this version known as the AGPS style.
We have created an interactive website to assist you in the pursuit of referencing to the required standard. The site
contains examples you can read as well as self help exercise with the information presented in a just in time format. It
would be beneficial fore you to bookmark the RMIT Business online referencing resource.
Why reference?
To draw on the ideas, language, data, and/or facts of others. (You are expected to read and research widely.)
To provide depth and support to academic work through citation of theories or key writers whose work
supports your answer, argument, or contention.
To demonstrate knowledge of current thinking in the field.
To support academic writing, essays, business reports, and oral presentations.
To demonstrate your ability to synthesis and analyse ideas sourced through your research.
To acknowledge work from others that you have quoted, summarised, paraphrased, synthesised, discussed
or mentioned in your assignments.
To provide a list of the publication details so that your readers can locate the source if necessary.
To demonstrate the level and breadth of research undertaken by a student. References used correctly will
benefit your work and may add to your final grade.
Note:
Without appropriate referencing students are in effect stealing the work of others- this is tantamount to
academic fraud and is called plagiarism.
Failure to reference your work means that you may be found guilty of plagiarism which incurs academic
penalties. Further information can be found at RMIT Regulations 6.1.1 Student Discipline.
Failure to use the correct referencing format may affect the grading of your academic work.
2. Referencing
2. 1 Introduction
Whenever you rely on someone elses work you must acknowledge that by providing details of the source. Harvard
Referencing has been developed to provide standard, compact ways of conveying this necessary information.
In this system, each reference is indicated in two areas of your work:
in the text (in-text citation) by using the name of the author(s) and the date of publication of the work.
In the reference list, where the full details of each reference, including the title and publishing details are given
2.2 In-text citations
There are two ways of referencing in-text:
Paraphrasing
Direct quotes
2.2.1 Paraphrasing
When paraphrasing, the ideas of the author(s) are expressed in your own words.
Paraphrasing is used to indicate to the reader:
your understanding of the content in the reference you are using.
your ability to relevantly and appropriately use ideas and information to support an argument or an opinion.
2.2.1.1 How to reference in-text
There are two options for in-text referencing
Adding the citation at the end of the sentence.
Using the authors name as part of your sentence.
When paraphrasing include the authors name and date of publication.
e.g.
Lack of variability in a product is an important measure of its quality (Shannon 2003).
OR
Shannon (2003) describes the role of statistics in minimising product variability.
2.2.2 Direct quotes
When quoting, the exact words of the author(s) are used. Direct quotes should be kept to a minimum.
2.2.2.1 How to reference in-text
There are two options for in-text referencing
Adding the citation at the end of the sentence
Using the authors name as part of your sentence
When using direct quotes include the authors name, date of publication and page number
e.g.
Statistical thinking can be defined as a set of thought processes and value systems that focus on
understanding, managing and reducing variation in the output of the firm (Shannon 2003, p. 5).
OR
Shannon defines statistical thinking as a set of thought processes and value systems that focus on
understanding, managing and reducing variation in the output of the firm (2003, p. 5).
2.3 A reference list
The publication details of every item cited / used in your writing need to be included in the reference list at the
end of your paper. Any websites used must also be documented in full. This enables the reader to locate the
source if they wish.
Each reference list entry requires a specific format depending on the reference type i.e. whether it is a book,
book chapter, journal article, website, etc. This is indicated in the following tables (page 6 onwards).
You must use a variety of sources in your written work e.g. books, journals and websites etc. This indicates
that you have researched widely.
What is the difference between a reference list and a bibliography?
A reference list details in alphabetical order by author family name, all the works/articles/journals/
monographs/web pages and data sources you have cited in your written work.
A bibliography lists, in alphabetical order by author family name, all the works/articles/journals/ monographs/
web pages and data sources you have used or accessed to create your written work.
Note: RMIT Business requires all students to use a reference list in assessment tasks unless otherwise instructed by
your lecturers.
2.3.1 Referencing internet sources
Referencing of web resources follows the same principles as for printed material. Often it is difficult to decide how to
reference a web site, especially when it originates from a corporate or government body.
It may not be clear:
who or which part of an organisation is responsible for the content. (Check the header, footer or About
section of the site).
when it was created or last updated. (Many sites are continuously updated check for clues such as
references to events which happened in a particular year or look for a copyright date. If it is clear that a site is
continuously updated use the current year.)
which part to take as the title. (Home pages do not always require a title. For subordinate pages, choose the
most obvious heading on the page).
who is responsible for publishing it.
The important thing is to make it clear exactly which part of the site you are referring to and provide details of the
bodies responsible.
Viewed date
As documents on the web are subject to sudden change, it is essential to include the date on which you accessed the
document, especially if no date can be found on the document itself.
Web addresses (URL - Uniform Resource Locator)
Provide the full URL for the site.
If you are accessing information via a Library database, give the name of the database not the URL.
As URLs often change, e.g. when a site is restructured, you need to provide sufficient information such as title and
author for the reader to locate the document on the site.
Enclose the URL in angle brackets
e.g. <www.ibisworld.com.au>. followed by a full stop.
It is important to use the URL prefix to identify type of access involved e.g. http:// ftp:// gopher://
General rules for in-text referencing where the name(s) of the authors are given
For books, journals, websites, conference papers and newspapers, the general rule is to use the family name and the
date.
Table 1
Referencing style types of author
In-text reference
One author
Family name
Year of publication
Kumar (2007) argued that
...(Kumar 2007).
Two or three authors
Family name
Year of publication
Brown and Lee (2008) offer the opinion that
....(Brown & Lee 2008).
Four or more authors
The name of the first author followed by et al.
Year of publication
Note: Family names of all authors, and initials, to be
used in the reference list
Ng et al. (2004) stated that
(Ng et al. 2004).
For specific information regarding referencing, refer to pages 8-22 of this Guide or use the online referencing resource
<www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/referencing/index.html>.
General rules for in-text referencing where the name(s) of the authors are not given
Table 2
Referencing style no author In-text reference
Newspapers from a database or hard copy
Name of paper in italics
Date
Page
Date viewed
Database if applicable
In-Text Reference
As stated in the Financial Review (1 August 2007, p. 62,
viewed 27 August 2007, Factiva Database)..
. (Financial Review, 1 August 2007, p. 62, viewed 27
August 2007, Factiva Database).
Websites corporations / institutions
An organisational publication with no individual
author e.g. a corporate website or report, treat the
company as the author
Name of authoring body, corporation / institution
Year of publication
Telstra (2007) provided the latest.
...,(Telstra 2007).
For specific information regarding referencing, refer to pages 8-22 of this Guide or use the online referencing resource
2.4 Books
The following table demonstrates how to correctly reference your work both in-text and in the reference list using
books.
Table 3
Reference type Reference list In-text citation
Book one author
Family name and initial(s)
Year of publication
Title of book - italicised
Publisher
Place of publication
Shannon, J 2003, A companion
to business statistics, Pearson,
Frenchs Forest, NSW.
Note the use of upper and lower
case in the titles of all books
(Shannon 2003).
OR
Shannon (2003) argues
Note:
for direct quotes enclose the
exact words of the writer in
single inverted commas
Include the page number(s)
Shannon (2003, p. 45) defines
...(Shannon 2003, p. 45).
Book four or more authors
The name of the first author
followed by et al. is used for
the in-text reference.
In the reference list write the
names of all the authors.
Kotler, P, Brown, L, Adam, S &
Armstrong, G 2004, Marketing,
6th edn, Prentice Hall, Frenchs
Forest, NSW.
(Kotler et al. 2004).
OR
Kotler et al. (2004) state ...
No clear author
Where there is no clear author,
enter under the title of the
book.
Style manual for authors,
editors and printers 2002, 6th
edn, John Wiley & Sons,
Australia.
The Style manual for authors,
editors and printers (2002)
describes
Edited book
Single editor
Multiple editors
Note:
ed. - editor
eds - editors
Cortada, J (ed.) 1998, Rise of
the knowledge worker,
Butterworth-Heinemann,
Boston.
Cope, B & Mason, D (eds)
2001, C-2-C: creator to
consumer in a digital age,
Common Ground Publishing,
Altona, Vic.
(ed. Cortada 1998).
(eds Cope & Mason 2001).
Book chapter / article
Author(s) of chapter - family
name(s) and initial(s)
Year of publication
Title of chapter - in single
inverted commas
[in] Editor of book (if different)
Title of book italicised
Edition
Publisher
Page number(s)
Ahmadjiian, CL 2006, Japanese
business groups: continuity in
the face of change, in S Chang
(ed.) Business groups in East
Asia, Oxford university Press,
UK, pp.29-52.
Note:
The Initial(s) of editor(s) comes
before their family name(s).
Include the page numbers for
the whole chapter.
Ahmadjiian (2006) observes that...
...(Ahmadjiian 2006).
E-book
Author(s) family name(s),
Initial(s)
Year of publication
Title of book,
Edition
Publisher
viewed day month year
database name
When the e-book is in a library
database as a page image (pdf),
cite it as if it were a hard copy
book.
To show where the e-book was
located online, add the date of
viewing and either database
name or URL.
If the book is only available on a
Library database as HTML or
plain text, then you must cite the
date of viewing and either the
database name or URL.

Zietlow, J, Hankin, JA &
Seidner, AG 2007, Financial
management for nonprofit
organizations : policies and
practices, John Wiley & Sons,
Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey.
or
Zietlow, J, Hankin, JA &
Seidner, AG 2007, Financial
management for nonprofit
organizations : policies and
practices, John Wiley & Sons,
Inc., Hoboken, N.J., viewed 7
November 2007, Ebook Library
database.

Liu, C & Albitz, P 2006, DNS and
BIND, 5
th
edn, OReilly,
Sebastopol, CA, viewed 7
November 2007, <http://
proquest.safaribooksonline.com/
0596100574>.
Zietlow, Hankin and Seidner (2007)
state...
.Zietlow, Hankin & Seidner
2007).
Alternatively an anonymous
article e.g. from an
encyclopedia or dictionary can
be cited in the text with no entry
in the reference list.
No reference needed. The new Palgrave dictionary of
money & finance (1992) defines
hedging as
Several items with same
author and year
If you are referring to more than
one work written by the same
author in the same year, the
letters a,b,c etc are added to the
date to indicate which one you
mean.
In the reference list the works
are listed alphabetically
according to the title. If the title
starts with A, An, or The, the
alphabetical order is determined
by the second word in the title
Hill, CWL 2004a, Global
business today, 3
rd
edn,
McGraw Hill / Irwin, Boston.
Hill, CWL 2004b, Strategic
management theory: an
integrated approach, 6
th
edn,
Houghton Mifflin, Boston.

Hill (2004a) suggests that...
Hill (2004b) suggests that...
...(Hill 2004b).
...(Hill 2004a).
Several items with same first
author and year
When an author publishes more
than one work in the same year,
but with different co-authors, the
name of the second author
determines the order in which
the works appear in the
reference list.
Kotler, P, Brown, L, Adam, S &
Armstrong, G 2004, Marketing,
6th edn, Prentice Hall, Frenchs
Forest, NSW.
Kotler, P & Lee, N 2004, Best of
breed, Stanford Social
Innovation Review , vol. 1, no.
4, pp. 14-23.
Kotler et al. (2004) suggested that...
Kotler and Lee (2004) offer the
opinion that...
(Kotler et al. 2004).
(Kotler & Lee 2004).
Secondary citation (citation
within a citation)
A secondary citation is when
you refer to the work of one
author cited by another author.
Primary sources are preferred.
If the original source is not
available you must include the
name of both writers for in-text
references.
Only the source you have read
appears in the reference list.
Horton, S 2006, Access by
design: a guide to universal
usability for web designers, New
Riders, Berkeley, California.
Form ever follows function (Sullivan,
cited in Horton 2006, p. 1).
In 1896 Louis H. Sullivan observed
that form ever follows function (cited
in Horton 2006, p. 1).
2.4.1 Printed material and multimedia
Table 4a
Journal articles
Author(s) family name(s),
initial(s)
Year of publication,
Title of article, in single
inverted commas
Journal name in italics,
month
volume: vol.
number: no.
issue,
page number(s): p. or pp.
for the whole article
Note:
Some journals or
magazines are designated
by month and year, rather
than by volume and issue.
Note:
For journal and newspaper
names only, all major words
are in upper case
Lencioni, PM 2002, Make your
values mean something,
Harvard Business Review, July,
p. 113.
Sloman, SA, Over, D, Slovak, L
& Stibel, JM 2003, Frequency
illusions and other fallacies,
Organizational Behaviour and
Human Decision Processes, vol.
91, no. 2, pp. 296-309.
Weber, T 1999, Gandhi, deep
ecology, peace research and
Buddhist economics, Journal of
Peace Research, vol. 36, no. 3,
pp. 349-61.
Lencioni (2002)
reported that...
...(Lencioni 2002).
Table 4a
Journal articles online
Author(s) of article - family
name(s) and initial(s)
Title of article, in single
inverted commas
Journal name, in italics
volume: vol.
number: no. .
issue ,
viewed day month year,
Note:
Often journal articles come
from a variety of different
sources. They are cited
differently, depending on
their format.
If a journal article appears
in a library database as a
page image (pdf), cite it the
same way as the original
hard copy format.
If the article was located
online, you must add date
viewed and either database
name or URL.
If the article is only available
on a Library database as
HTML or plain text, then you
must cite the date viewed
and either the database
name or URL.
If the article has been
located on the internet and
not on a database, you
must cite the date viewed
and URL.
Brewer, P & Sherriff, G
2007, Is there a cultural
divide in Australian
international trade?,
Australian Journal of
Management, vol. 32, no.
1, pp. 113-134.
or
Management, vol. 32, no.
1, pp. 113-134, viewed 11
November 2007, Ebsco
database.
Management, vol. 32, no.1,
p 113, viewed 11 November
2007, Factiva database.
Management, vol 32, no. 1,
viewed 11 November 2007,
<http://www.agsm.edu.au/
~eajm/0706/06-
brewersherriff.html>.
Brewer and Sherriff (2007)
suggest
...(Brewer & Sherriff 2007).
Table 4a
Newspaper articles
Author(s) family name(s)
and initial(s),
'Title of article - in single
inverted commas
Newspaper name in
italics,
day month,
Kemp, S 2003 Leak
pushes AMP to record low,
The Age, 7 August, p. 1
(Business section).
Kemp (2003) reported
that ...
...(Kemp 2003).
Note: if the newspaper
article does NOT have an
author then provide details
in in-text citation only, NOT
in the reference list or
bibliography
Not required. As stated in The Age (17
August 2007, p. 12)
...(The Age 17 August
2007, p. 12).
Newspaper articles online
and initial(s)
Year of publication
Title of article - in single
inverted commas
Newspaper name in italics
day month
page number(s) p. or pp.
<URL> or <name of
database>.
See instructions as for
journal articles where citing
PDF or HTML formats of
newspaper articles
Khadem, N 2007, Lid stays
on wages growth, The Age,
15 November, p. 1
(Business section), viewed
16 November 2007,
<Factiva database>.
Khadem (2007) reported
that...
...(Khadem 2007).
Published conference
papers
and initial(s),
'Title of paper - in single
inverted commas'
in Editor (if applicable), Title
of published conference
proceedings, including
place held and date(s) in
italics, Publisher,
place of publication,
page number(s).
Note: The initials of the
editors go in front of the
family name(s)
Dong, Y 2001, The
Chinese experience, in P
Drysdale, (ed.), The new
economy in East Asia and
the Pacific: Proceedings of
the 27
th
Pacific Trade and
Development Conference,
Australian National
University, Canberra, 20-
22 August, 2001, Routledge
Curzon, London and New
York. pp. 130-139.
Dong (2001) analysed ...
...(Dong 2001).
Table 4a
Online conference papers
Author(s) family/
surname(s) and initial(s)
Year of publication
'Title of paper - in single
inverted commas
Editor (if applicable)
Title of published
conference proceedings,
including place held and
date(s) in italics
Publisher
database name or <URL>.
Note:
The initials of the editors go
in front of the family
name(s)
Jakubowicz, A. 2002, 'Race
vilification and communal
leadership', in W. Jonas
(ed.), Beyond Tolerance:
National Conference on
Racism, Sydney, 12-13
March 2002, Human
Rights and Equal
Opportunities Commission,
Sydney, viewed 17 June
2002,
<www.humanrights.gov.au/
racial_discrimination/
beyond_tolerance/
speeches/jakubowicz.html>.
Jakubowicz (2002) argued
that
(Jakubowicz 2002).
Unpublished conference
papers or presentations
Author(s) Family name(s),
Initial(s)
Year of publication
Title of paper use single
inverted commas
Paper presented to
Title of conference/forum
Location of conference/
forum
Date of conference/forum
Page(s)
Pannan, L, van der Craats,
C & McGovern, J 2002,
'Multi-level stepwise
approach to engaging all
academic staff in on-line
delivery', paper presented to
2nd RMIT Teaching and
Learning Forum, Melbourne,
24 October 2002.
Pannam, van der Craats
and McGovern (2002)
described ...
... (Pannam, van der Craats
& McGovern 2002).
Theses
Author family/surname
and initials Year of
preparation of thesis
Title of thesis in single
inverted commas
Award,
Institution
Baxter, JS 2001, 'Rural land
use and value in Northern
Victoria 1880-1960', PhD
thesis, RMIT University.
Baxter (2001)
investigated..
(Baxter 2001).
Table 4a
Theses online
Author family/surname and
initials
Year of preparation of thesis,
Title of thesis,
Award, Institution,
<URL> or <name of database>.
Khanh, VL 2006. Customer
Loyalty in Web-based
Retailing, PhD thesis, RMIT
University, 14 November
2007, <ADT database>.
Khanh (2006)
explored...
...(Khanh 2006).
Government publications
These include departmental
reports, reports of commissions
of inquiry, committees of review
and committees of parliament.
Author or organisation name
Title of report,
catalogue. no.,
Publisher,
Place of publication,
Government publications can be
reported in a variety of ways.
See the Style manual for
authors, editors and printers
2002, pp. 220 223 for further
examples.
Australia, Parliament 2003,
Fraud control arrangements in
the Australian Customs
Service, Parliamentary Paper
32, Canberra.
(Australia, Parliament
2003).
Government publications
online
Author or organisation name
Title of report,
cat. no.,
Publisher,
<URL>.
Many government publications
are available on the Internet.
The way you access a
document affects your citation.
Australian National Audit
Office 2003, Fraud control
arrangements in the
Australian Customs Service,
viewed 4 August 2003,
<www.anao.gov.au/
WebSite.nsf Publications/
2F8FE1D39613A8B8CA256
CF300709A62>.
Note: Enclose the URL
address with < >.
Australian Bureau of
Statistics 2004, Mental Health
in Australia: A Snapshot, cat.
no. 4824.0.55.001. ABS,
Canberra, viewed 18 August
2005, <www.abs.gov.au>.
(Australian National
Audit Office 2003).
...(Australian Bureau of
Statistics 2004).
Table 4a
Company or Industry
Information
Company name
Year of publication
Title of report in italics
Publisher,
Coles Myer Ltd 2005,
Corporate social
responsibility report 2005,
Coles Myer, Tooronga, Vic.
...(Coles Myer Ltd 2005).
Company or industry
information online
Company name
Year of publication
Title of report in italics
Publisher,
<URL>.
IBISWorld 2005, Wine
Manufacturing in Australia
(C2183), IBISWorld Pty Ltd,
<www.ibisworld.com.au>.
Datamonitor 2005, Westfield
Group (Australia): company
profile, Datamonitor, viewed
23 January 2006, Business
Searching Interface
(EBSCO) database.

Although the domestic wine
market is expected to be
stagnant from 2006-2010,
wine exports will continue
to grow, although at a lower
rate than previously
(IBISWorld 2005).
The Westfield Group has
interests in 129 shopping
centres in Australia, New
Zealand, the UK and USA
(Datamonitor 2005).
CD-ROM
Author(s)/editor(s) name(s),
Initial(s)
Year
Title (in italics)
Edition
CD-ROM
Publisher
No author or editor
Note: the in-text reference
would be to the title of the
CD in italics.
DeBolt, V. 2007, Mastering
integrated HTML and CSS,
CD-ROM, Wiley Publishing,
Indianapolis, USA.
Best practice in sport and
recreation for tourism
development within APEC
economies 2001, CD-ROM,
APEC Secretariat,
Singapore.
Debolt (2007) suggested
that.
(Debolt 2007).
APEC has provided
guidelines for developing
sports facilities in the region
(Best practice in sport and
recreation for tourism
development within APEC
economies 2001).
Table 4a
Videorecordings and
television programs
Title of program italicised
(if part of an ongoing
series, list the episode title
first, then the series name)
year of recording
format
publisher/distributor
place of recording
date of recording (if
applicable)
viewed day month year (if
applicable)
database name or <URL> (if
applicable)
Note: the in-text reference
would be to the title of the
program, also in italics.
Accounting for the
environment 1994,
videorecording, Educational
Media Australia, South
Melbourne.
Economy records strongest
growth and shows no sign
of slowing, another rate rise
predicted: Lateline Business
2007, television program,
ABC Television, Melbourne,
4 September, viewed 11
January 2008, TVNews
Database.
7.30 Report 2005,
television program, ABC,
20 November.

Business Sunday 2005,
television program, Nine
Network, 20 November,
viewed 2 December 2005,
<http://
businesssunday.ninemsn.co
m.au/mediapopup.aspx?
mediaID=16806>.
Accounting techniques are
increasingly being applied to
problems of pollution and
land use (Accounting for the
environment 1994).
Lateline Business (2007)
On Lateline Business (2007)
it was stated that Australian
economic growth.
When interviewed on 7.30
Report (2005) the
Treasurer said
Several businesses are
sponsoring environmental
research on Heron Island
(Business Sunday 2005)
Personal communications
including email, SMS,
conversations, interviews
Personal communications
should be cited in the text,
but do not need to appear in
the list of references
Not required. This was confirmed in an
email from C. Costa on 5
November 2007.
Further details of this may
be given in the list of
references if you wish the
reader to be able to follow
up the reference. To avoid
breaching privacy you
should obtain permission of
the person before doing
this.
Senders name, year, email,
date month, <sender's email
address>.
Costa, C 2007, email, 5
November 2007,
<cathy.costa@rmit.edu.au>.
Table 4b
Home pages
These do not always have a
title. They should follow the
format:
Name of the organisation
date
Title (if any, written in italics)
name of organisation
responsible for publishing
site (often the same) place
of publication (usually the
location of the registered
office) viewed date
<URL>.
Telstra 2005, Telstra,
Melbourne, viewed 2
December 2005, <http://
telstra.com.index.jsp>.
business.gov.au 2005,
Department of Industry,
Tourism and Resources,
Canberra, viewed 2
December 2005,
<www.business.gov.au/
Business+Entry+Point>.
Note that there is no single
correct method of
referencing the above site. It
is important to be
consistent. One of several
acceptable alternatives
would be:
Business Entry Point 2005,
business.gov.au, viewed 2
December 2005,
<www.business.gov.au/
Business+Entry+Point>.
Many corporate web sites
provide information to a
variety of user groups (e.g.
Telstra 2005, Vodaphone
2005).
The Australian
Governments business
gateway (business.gov.au,
2005) provides information
on starting or running a
small business.
OPTIONAL
Home page addresses can
be provided directly in the
text without appearing in the
reference list.
However pages which are
part of a larger site should
be referenced as below
The Australian
Governments business
gateway (2005)
<www.business.gov.au>
provides information on
starting or running a small
business.
Table 4b
Document on a web site
Author(s) /editor(s)
Year of document,
Title of document in italics
name of the sponsor of the
source date of viewing
<URL>.
If a document is available as
a PDF (page image) file,
this is often easier to cite as
it is closer to a printed
format. It also allows you to
specify particular page
numbers
Australian National Audit
Office 2005, The
management and
processing of leave, viewed
2 December 2005,
<www.anao.gov.au/
WebSite.nsf/
NewAuditReports/
D8761E0D72DFCE
60CA2570BB0037B103/$fil
e/Audit+Report+16.pdf>.
Telstra n.d., Audit
governance and financial
reporting, Telstra, viewed 1
December 2005.
<www.telstra.com.au/
abouttelstra/corp/
a_governance.cfm>.
Many government
departments do not manage
their employees leave
within the terms of their
Enterprise Agreements
(Australian National Audit
Office 2005, p. 10).
OR
The Australian National
Audit Office reports that
many government
departments do not manage
their employees leave
within the terms of their
Enterprise Agreements
(2005, p. 10).
Although the Telstra Act
makes the Auditor-General
of Australia responsible for
auditing Telstra, certain
functions are carried out by
an agent (Telstra n.d.).
Company or industry
information on a website
or database
If this information is sourced
from a library database it is
better to include the
database name rather than
the URL
IBISWorld 2005, Wine
Manufacturing in Australia
(C2183), IBISWorld Pty Ltd,
<www.ibisworld.com.au>.
Datamonitor 2005, Westfield
Group (Australia): company
profile, Datamonitor, viewed
23 January 2006, Business
Searching Interface
(EBSCO) database.
Although the domestic wine
market is expected to be
stagnant from 2006-2010,
wine exports will continue to
grow, although at a lower
rate than previously
(IBISWorld 2005).
The Westfield Group has
interests in 129 shopping
centres in Australia, New
Zealand, the UK and USA
(Datamonitor 2005).
Wiki entry
As wikis are a collaborative
source, usually there is no
named author.
Title of article
Year,
Title, - in italics
format,
<URL>.
The exponential power of
connectedness 2007,
Connectedintelligence, wiki
article, viewed 11 November
2007, <http://
connectedintelligence.wikisp
aces.com/
Exponential+Power+of
+Connectedness>.
In (Connectedintelligence
2007)
Table 4b
Weblog site
Author(s) of weblog
Family name(s) and
initial(s)
Year,
Weblog name,
format,
<URL>.
Weblog post
Author(s) - family name(s)
and initial(s)
Year,
Title of post,
Weblog name, in italics
format,
date of posting day month,
<URL>.
Webber. S & Boon, S 2006,
Information literacy weblog,
weblog, viewed 10 January
2008, <http://information-
literacy.blogspot.com>.
Webber. S 2008, Events
from CILIP, Information
literacy weblog, weblog
post, 9 January, viewed 11
January 2008, <http://
information-
literacy.blogspot.com>.
(Webber & Boon 2006).
Webber (2008) posted the
following information...
Intranet/course notes
Format:
and Initial(s)
Title of work in italics
course notes from (Course
Code),
Publisher,
Online@RMIT.
Smith, H 2005, Metadata,
course notes from
ISYS6655, RMIT University,
Melbourne, viewed 8 July
2005, Online@RMIT.
2.4.2 Electronic journal articles
Table 4c
Journal articles online
If a journal article appears in
a library database as a page
image (pdf), you may cite it
the same way as the
original hard copy format.
If you wish to show where
the article was located
online, you may add date of
access and either database
name or URL.
If the article is only available
on a Library database as
HTML or plain text, then you
will need to cite the date of
access and either the
If the article has been
located on the internet and
not on a database, you will
need to cite the date of
access and URL.

Management, vol. 32, no. 1,
pp. 113-134.
OR
pp. 113-134, viewed 11
November 2007, Ebsco
database.
p 113, viewed 11 November
2007, Factiva database.
<www.agsm.edu.au/~eajm/
0706/06-
brewersherriff.html>.
Brewer and Sherriff (2007)
suggest
(Brewer and Sherriff
2007).
2.4.4 Legislation and legal cases
When referring to legislation including Acts, Ordinances and Regulations, the title must be reproduced exactly, without
changing the capitalisation or spelling. The words Act and Bill are generally written with a capital letter.
An Act or Ordinance may be cited by the short title, which is usually drafted into modern legislation. The first reference
must always include the short title in italics. Subsequent references may refer to it by an undated, descriptive title in
Roman type (normal or regular type).
Legislation or legal cases are only included in the reference list if they are important to the understanding of the work.
In this case it is best to set the list apart from the main body of the reference list and use the heading Legislation or
Legal authorities.

Further guidance is provided in the Style manual for authors, editors and printers 2002, pp. 224-8.
Table 4d
Reference type
Reference list In-text citation
Legislation
An Act or Ordinance may be
cited by the given short title.
The first reference must
always include the short title
in italics.
Subsequent references may
refer to it by an undated,
descriptive title in roman i.e.
normal or regular type.
Not generally required.
The Trade Practices Act
1974 (Commonwealth)
provides that
One of the shortcomings of
the Trade Practices Act is
The jurisdiction must be
made clear, either by
including it in the body of
the text or in abbreviated
form in brackets after the
act title.
Not generally required.
The Fair Trading Act 1999
(Vic) covers
OR
In Victoria this is covered by
the Fair Trading Act 1999
Legal cases
To fully cite legal authorities
list name of case in italics
(date) or volume number, or
both; abbreviated name of
report series; and beginning
page. No commas are used.
Not generally required. Commercial Bank of
Australia Ltd v. Amadio
(1983) 151 CLR 447
This case appeared in 1983
in the Commonwealth Law
Reports, volume 151,
starting on page 447.
Legal referencing
If you have been instructed
by your lecturer to use
footnotes in your
referencing, refer to the link
given.
http://
mulr.law.unimelb.edu.au/
files/aglcdl.pdf
2.4.5 Order of entries in a reference list
Note: The following provide examples of how to order your reference list. No full stops are used between an authors
initials, and no comma is used after the last author's initials. The dots following the entries names indicate the details of
the reference that should follow.
Table 5
Reference list order rules Reference list
The reference list is arranged first
alphabetically by author, and if the authors
are the same then by date.
A reference with multiple authors follows
single author entries beginning with the
same author name.
Where an item has no author it is listed by
its title.
Where several works have the same
author and year of publication, add the
letters a, b, ... etc according to the
alphabetical order of the titles in the
reference list, ignoring the initial articles A,
An or The.
Jones, AB 2000, ...
Origin Energy 2005,
Smith, AK 1990, ...
Smith, AK 1999,
Smith, AK 2004,
Stein, B 2003, (single author entry)
Stein, B, Lee, HK, Yin, CX & Singh, GS
2000, (plural and alphabetical author
entry, that is, Lee comes before Reynolds
in the English alphabet.)
Stein, B & Reynolds, JS 1995,
Stein, B & Reynolds, JS 2000, (This
reference is sorted by its date, it has the
same authors as the reference before it but
was written at a later date)
Style manual for authors, editors and
printers 2002, ...
Young, JC 1988a, Economic indicators
Young, JC 1988b, A quick guide
(Economic comes before quick in the
English alphabet)
Young, JC & Smith, AK 1988,
2.5 Other referencing systems
Although you are normally required to use the style described above, you will come across many other methods of
referencing. These include other versions of the Author-date or Harvard system as well as Note systems. Further
details of some of these styles are available via the Library website at www.rmit.edu.au/library/reference/manuals or in
style manuals in the Library.
Table 6
Referencing system
Examples
Other author-date styles
There are many other versions of the Author-date
or Harvard style apart from that described above.
The main similarity is that they use in-text
citations and a reference list. However they may
differ in their use of punctuation, brackets, italics,
underlined or bold formatting, method of
designating volume, issue and pages numbers,
etc.
Only use a different author-date style if your
lecturer specifically requests it, and make sure
you follow the required style closely.
Reword to include exceptions eg Law.
APA style, as described in the Publication manual
of the American Psychological Association 2001,
5th edn, APA, Washington, DC. This style is
widely used internationally in the social sciences.
Many academic journals have their own author-
date style.
Many style manuals e.g. Chicago, MLA and
Turabian include an author-date style.
Note systems
While it is not RMIT Business style, you may at
some stage be asked to use the Note system of
referencing, either footnotes or endnotes. This
system is commonly used in law, as well as
sciences and humanities. Examples of styles
using a Note system are shown opposite.
Only use a Note style if your lecturer specifically
requests it, and make sure you follow the
required style closely.
Australian Legal Citation Style, as described in
Australian guide to legal citation 2002, 2nd edn,
Melbourne University Law Review Association
and at
http://mulr.law.unimelb.edu.au/files/aglcdl.pdf
Documentary note style as described in Style
manual for authors, editors and printers, 2002,
6th edn, John Wiley & Sons, Australia, pp.
208-15.
Vancouver style as described in Style manual for
authors, editors and printers, 2002, 6th edn, John
Wiley & Sons, Australia, pp. 215-8 or other
sources.
2.6 Commonly used abbreviations in referencing
The abbreviations listed below may appear in other bibliographies, lists of references, footnotes and endnotes:
Table 7
Abbreviation
art.
app.
c. (Latin circa) e.g. c. 1835
cf.
ch., chs
col., cols
edn (note: no full stop)
ed., eds
e.g.
et al.
f., ff.
fig., figs
id.
i.e.
n.d.
no., nos
p., pp.
para., paras
rev.
2nd (note: no full stop see ch.8.2 on numbering)
sec., s., ss.
vol., vols
article
appendix
approximately, about
compare
chapter(s)
column(s)
edition
editor(s)
for example
and others
and the following pages
figure(s)
the same
that is
no date
number(s)
page(s)
paragraph(s)
revised
second (edition)
section (s. for section, ss. for subsection of
legislation)
volume(s)
2.7 Using EndNote with RMIT Business style
EndNote is a software program that helps you keep track of the details of books, articles, websites or other information
sources which you may need to refer to in your assignments or thesis. It is particularly recommended for use by staff
and postgraduate students.
EndNote allows you to
create, store and manage references to books, journal articles, web sites, conference papers, multimedia and
other sources of information
insert selected references directly into a word processed document and automatically create and format
bibliographies in a chosen style
search and retrieve records from remote catalogues and databases
RMIT has a site licence for EndNote, which allows you to use it at RMIT and on your own computer. Further details are
available on the Library's EndNote tutorial at www.rmit.edu.au/library/endnote. This site also has an output style
available for download, labelled "Harvard ed6" which follows Style manual (2002) as used at RMIT Business.
3. Plagiarism
3.1 RMIT University definition of plagiarism
RMIT has an assessment charter, which elaborates key responsibilities common to all staff and students in relation to
assessment and defines the Universitys policy on plagiarism. Plagiarism is defined (RMIT University 2003a) as
stealing somebodys intellectual property (IP) by presenting their work, thoughts or ideas as though they are your own.
It is cheating. It is a serious academic offence and can lead to expulsion from RMIT.
Plagiarism can take many forms - written, graphic and visual forms, and includes use of electronic data and material
used in oral presentations. Plagiarism may even occur unintentionally, such as when the origin of the material used is
not properly cited.
3.1.1 What constitutes plagiarism?
Under the charter, you may be accused of plagiarism if you do any of the following:
Copy sentences or paragraphs word-for-word from any source, whether published or unpublished (including, but
not limited to books, journals, reports, theses, websites, conference papers, course notes, etc.) without
proper citation.
Closely paraphrase sentences, paragraphs, ideas or themes without proper citation.
Piece together text from one or more sources and add only linking sentences without proper citation.
Copy or submit whole or parts of computer files without acknowledging their source.
Copy designs or works of art and submit them as your original work.
Copy a whole or any part of another students work.
Submit work as your own that someone else has done for you.
Enabling Plagiarism is the act of assisting or allowing another person to plagiarise or to copy your own work (RMIT
2003a). It is also a serious academic offence. More detail on what constitutes plagiarism is found in the January 2003
Policy on Plagiarism
3.1.2 What is the penalty for plagiarism?
Plagiarism is not permitted in RMIT University. Any use of another persons work or ideas must be acknowledged. If
you fail to do this, you may be charged with academic misconduct and face a penalty under RMIT Regulations 6.1.1
Student Discipline. This may be viewed at http://mams.rmit.edu.au/7w2uew7i6v2.pdf
Penalties for plagiarism (RMIT University 2003b) include:
recording of a failure for the assignment or course.
cancellation of any or all results.
suspension from the program.
expulsion from the program.
3.2 Examples of plagiarism
RMIT Universitys Learning Skills Unit has developed a range of examples to help you identify the most common forms
of plagiarism, such as:
Table 8
Direct use of another person's work without citation
If the sentence opposite appeared in
an assessment :
It is plagiarism because the words
have been copied directly from a
book
Work motivation and performance increase when employees feel
personally accountable for the outcomes of their efforts.
A properly referenced paper would
use the sentence this way:
McShane and Travaglione (2003 p.199) state that work motivation and
performance increase when employees feel personally accountable for
the outcomes of their efforts.
Table 9
Paraphrasing sentences, paragraphs and ideas without citation
These are your words but not your
idea/information.
When employees feel responsible for their work, they tend to be more
motivated which results in higher performances.
You MUST show where the idea
came from. Hence
Note: no page number needed as
not a direct quote.
When employees feel responsible for their work, they tend to be more
motivated which results in higher performances (McShane &
Travaglione 2003).
Table 10
Piecing together texts from one or more sources and linking them
The following in a paper is
plagiarism:
Employees must be given control of their work environment to feel
responsible for their successes and failures. This is called employee
involvement, designed to encourage increased commitment to the
organisations success.
A correct way of referencing the
paragraph is:

Employees must be assigned control of their work environment to feel
responsible for their successes and failures (McShane & Travaglione
2003, p. 199). Robbins, et al. (2001 p. 237) call this employee
involvement designed to encourage increased commitment to the
organisations success.
Table 11
Integrating ideas from multiple sources
A good model of how to integrate
ideas from multiple sources.
Read through the example. Note:
Usually the first sentence is a
statement of proposition
introducing the ideas that you
want to put forward in the
paragraph.
Then support the proposition by
at least one or more authorities.
Include a statement of opinions
contrary to the proposition
(demonstrates that you have
considered all sides to the
argument).
Summarise your argument or
proposition in your own words.
Eunson (1987, p. 67) defines motivation as what is important to you,
and explores the importance of money as a motivator. However,
recent studies outlined by Leonard, Beauvais and Scholl (1999)
suggest that personality and disposition play an equally important role
in motivation.
Conversely Robbins et al. (1994, p. 241) put forward the idea that
motivation is a set of processes that stimulate, direct and maintain
human behaviour towards attaining a goal
In other words motivation is a complex concept, which encompasses
a variety of competing theories. There are many reasons why people
behave differently in the workplace, but it is because these differences
exist that managements pay attention to the theories, which provide
them with frameworks for problem solving.
3.3 How to avoid plagiarism
Use this checklist to ensure you avoid accusations of plagiarism:
Table 12
How to avoid accusations of plagiarism
DO NOT directly copy phrases and / or passages (transcribe) without a reference
and / or quotation marks
DO NOT paraphrase other writers work in your written work without citing references.
DO NOT make a direct reference to an author or authors you have not read, even if
you may have read about them.
(While the use of secondary sources is not encouraged, if the primary publication is
out of print or difficult to obtain, you should cite the secondary source you have
actually read rather than the original that you have not read.)
DO NOT copy another persons work, in part or in whole, or allow someone else to
copy part or all of work you have completed.
DO NOT write your work in conjunction with other students without prior permission.
(Except in group assignments where wider consultation is expected, you should only
meet with other students initially to discuss the essay topic and/or analyse the
question.)
DO NOT submit written work already submitted for assessment in any other course.
Examples based on information available on RMIT Library referencing section.
Further information is available online from the Study and Learning Centre.
4. Essay writing
What is an essay?
An essay is:
a continuous piece of writing that sets out to discuss or argue a point of view or opinion.
information presented formally often with the intention of defending or promoting a particular point of view.
Why are you required to write essays?

to demonstrate knowledge and expertise in a subject area.
to apply theories and models to given topics/ questions/ issues - to support the proposition you are putting
forward.
to demonstrate your ability to synthesise various sources of information in a coherent and concise piece of
writing enabling the reader to easily follow the flow of ideas.
to develop your ability to argue, persuade, explain, inform and/or discuss.
to convince the reader by the logic of the argument presented.
A Step By Step Guide to Essay Writing
If you have a choice of topics select the one that interests you the most or that has relevance to your chosen career.
If you are allowed to create your own essay topic, choose a subject that you want to learn more about and which
interests you.
Step 2 Read the instructions, relating to your assessments as set down in your Course Guide
Always check your Course Guide to ensure that you are clear about what you are required to do:
When is the essay due?
How long is it?
What is the format?
How does this topic relate to the course?
How does this topic relate to the current area being studied?
Break the topic into its component parts to understand what the main elements of the task are. Essay topics can
usually be divided into three sections:
Content What is the topic about?
Instruction What have you been asked to do in relation to the topic?
Scope How has the topic been limited is there a focus on particular
organisations/ countries, /year(s)?
Underline key words and draw circles around the action/instruction words. Below is an example of an essay question.
Compare and contrast the financial reports and ratios of two Australian companies
It is important that you fully understand what the instruction words are telling you to do.
Table 13 provides a list of words and definitions that are often used in your assessment tasks.
Table 13
Action/instruction words used in assessment
tasks
Definitions
Analyse Separate or break the subject matter into its parts to
discover their nature, proportion, function and
relationships.
Argue Systematically support or reject a position by presenting
reasons and evidence for acceptance or rejection, while
indicating your awareness of opposing points of view.
Comment Make critical observations about the subject matter; be
careful not to cast too wide a net here, or to write in too
many generalisations.
Compare Find similarities and differences between two or more
ideas, events, interpretations etc. Ensure you
understand exactly what you are being asked to
compare.
Contrast The remarks on compare also apply to contrast.
Usually the difference is that you should concentrate on
dissimilarities.
Define Provide clear, concise, authoritative meanings, in which
you address the nature or essential qualities. Details are
not necessarily required, but you may wish to cite the
boundaries or limitations of the definition, since
meanings can extend beyond simple definitions.
Describe Recall facts, processes or events. You are not asked to
explain or interpret. Try to provide a thorough
description, emphasising the most important points.
Discuss Present a point of view, that of others and/or your own.
This is likely to entail both description and interpretation.
Your opinion should be supported by arguments and
evidence.
Evaluate Here you are asked to appraise in order to make a
judgment, which means considering both strengths and
weaknesses.
Illustrate Clarify, exemplify or elucidate by presenting a figure,
picture, diagram or concrete example.
Outline Give an organised description or an ordering of
information in which you state the main point, but omit
details. Present the information in a systematic
arrangement or classification.
Review Re-examine, analyse and comment briefly (in an
organised sequence) on the major points of an issue.
Summarise Provide a brief statement or an account covering the
main points in sequence or by assimilating parts into a
general comment: omit details.
Step 4 Brainstorm - What do you already know about the topic?
Using your reading, lectures and your own experiences think about what you already know about the topic.
On a blank piece of paper, write down all the ideas that you think might be related to the topic.
A brainstorm is the beginning of a mind map these random ideas can be organised into a structured mind
map that will provide you with a guide for your research and your writing.
Although you are required to read and research widely, it is better to gain an overview of the topic by firstly reading the
recommended texts dont go straight online unless instructed to do so by your lecturer / tutor.
The texts will give you a broad understanding of the main ideas, writers and theories associated with the topic.
By familiarising yourself with the key concepts, the next stage of your research will be more targeted.
Step 6 Mind mapping
A mind map is a visual way of gathering your ideas about a particular topic.
Mind maps help you to identify the main ideas and what research needs to be conducted to provide the evidence that
supports these ideas.
Your mind map is a good time management resource. It will help you to focus your search for information more
efficiently and to organise your ideas into a coherent argument when you write your essay.
Table 14
Mind mapping for essays
Topic question On a blank piece of paper, write down the topic.
Key ideas Use the brain storming notes and information gained
from general reading to jot down the key ideas. This is
the first step in developing a mind map.
Research As you continue to do research, start to put the
information into groups so that you can see the
connections between ideas/theories. This will help you
to sort out which are the key ideas and what is the
supporting information.
Delete any unnecessary ideas Once you have completed this task, you can delete any
unnecessary ideas that you have now identified as
irrelevant.
Single page Keep your mind map to a single page.
For more information on mind mapping go to the Learning Lab - Study Skills <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
As Business students you need to be familiar with current trends and thinking. Websites, newspapers and journals will
be important resources for your research.
When you are using the online resources use the search engines provided by the university such as Factiva, Proquest,
Blackwell Synergy, IBIS world, Informit. These will provide you with sources that can be relied on for accuracy and
integrity.
At this stage you must read with a purpose and only make notes when you are sure that the text has the information
you need to use in your assessment task.
Always make sure you have recorded the full reference list entry details you will need this information later.
For more information on recording your research go to the interactive online referencing resource for Business students
<http://www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/referencing>.
Refer to your course guide for recommended reading lists. If there are no recommended texts, you will need to use
resources available through the Library data bases <http://www.rmit.edu.au/library>.
Hints and Tips on Efficient Reading Strategies
Once you have identified the key words and concepts relating to the topic, use these reading strategies to
make your research more efficient and to maximise the use of your time.
Skim and scan. Use key words and concepts to quickly locate information
Use chapter headings, abstracts, introductions, conclusions to find the main ideas the writer is exploring
if they are relevant continue
Make notes when key information has been identified
Contact the Library Liaison Officer for your course if you need assistance.
For additional help with reading more efficiently visit the Learning Lab <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
Hints and Tips on Critical Reading
One of your tasks when researching is to determine the validity, accuracy and credibility of your sources. This
requires you to consider carefully what you are reading. It is always important to critically examine the
statements being made and the evidence being used.
For your assessment tasks you will often be using the websites of companies and organisations. The
information they provide will be positive and promotional so it is important to question the objectivity and
reliability of the data.
Do this by considering the following questions:-
Who is the writer?
When was the article written?
What evidence has the writer provided to support their argument?
How convincing is it? Why? - What are the grounds for saying so?
How logical is it? - Again, what are the grounds for saying so?
What assumptions / overgeneralizations does the writer make?
What are the implications of this work?
What has the writer failed to consider? Where are the gaps?
Is there evidence of bias?
Do you agree or disagree with this writers standpoint?
With which parts of the argument do you agree/disagree, and for what reasons?
Is the methodology / the analysis appropriate?
Are there any weaknesses or errors in the writing or calculations?
What are primary information sources?
Students are required to use primary sources whenever possible. This means that you read and reference the original
works of the authors. Information you have gathered from first hand experience eg. an interview or survey is also a
primary source.
What are secondary information sources?
When you use the ideas /words of one author that have appeared in another writers text you are using a secondary
source.

Below are two examples of how to use a secondary source in a sentence:
(1) Bartlett and Ghoshal (cited in Daft 2004) suggest that companies expanding into global markets are
forced to do so because of economic, technological and competitive factors, which relate to economies of
scale, economies of scope and cheaper production factors.
(2) Companies expanding into global markets are forced to do so because of economic, technological and
competitive factors, which relate to economies of scale, economies of scope and cheaper production factors
(Bartlett & Ghoshal, cited in Daft 2004).
Note: Wherever possible, use primary sources
Before writing the first draft of your essay use your mind map and your summarised notes to draw up a detailed essay
plan identifying the main ideas and the evidence that supports those ideas.
A detailed plan can help you to have confidence when you start to write. You know what you want to write, why you are
including it and the logical order in which to present it.
Step 9 Writing the Essay
Essay Structure
An essay is a structured form of writing. Your purpose in writing an essay is to demonstrate to the reader that you
understand the topic and can use research to support your argument.
An essay has 3 parts-:
the introduction
the main section where the argument is developed, and
the conclusion
See Diagram 1 below for a detailed outline on what each part should contain.
Paraphrasing, Synthesising and Direct Quotations
When you write your essay, you will need to use techniques such as paraphrasing and synthesising.
Paraphrasing is expressing in your own words the ideas of another writer.
Synthesising is the ability to express in your own words the similarities or differences in the ideas of a number
of authors.
You must always acknowledge the sources for your ideas even when you use your own words. For more
information on how to paraphrase and synthesise go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
For more information on how to reference when paraphrasing go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/
referencing>.
Direct quotations are when you use the exact words of the author/source.
You may use direct quotation in your assessment tasks, but these should be kept to a minimum.
Whenever quoting from any source you must correctly reference the work. For further information on how to
reference direct quotes, go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/referencing>.
For more information on direct quotes, go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
Note: Do NOT just cut and paste information from sources! To just use the words of an author does not demonstrate
your understanding or ability to create a logical argument. The quality of your work will be better if you paraphrase
and synthesis your research, as this will show that you are able to interpret and critically analyse what you have read
in relation to the topic.
Using the detailed plan you have now developed, set aside a block of time to write the first draft of your essay. Aim to
write the whole essay in the time you have set aside as this will give your work a clear flow. Do not be concerned at
this stage with correct grammar, spelling, referencing as this will be done at the editing stage.
Once you have written this first draft it will be much easier to see where evidence is lacking, and where information
could be more logically re-organised.
As you will probably need to write several drafts before the essay is ready for submission, make sure you have allowed
sufficient time to do this.
Consider the items below to ensure your essay is a well written and well constructed piece of writing.
Table 15
Checklist for essays
Each paragraph contains one central idea
The above idea is supported by sufficient evidence from your research
The last sentence in each paragraph links to the main idea of the next paragraph
The writing:
has a logical structure and the overall argument is easy to follow
presents a reasoned and supported argument
uses only relevant information which is accurate precise / specific
uses impersonal language do not use personal pronouns such a I or we
unless you are given permission to do so
is objective and unbiased
uses formal English do not use abbreviations or colloquialisms or SMS
language
Step 11 Editing your final draft
You need to edit your draft before submitting the final version.
Read your Course Guide carefully to ensure that you have met the requirements of the assignment.
Observe the word limit or you may be penalised. Word limits as the words imply set the limit on the number of words
that can be used. The topic has been designed so that the issues and complexities can be explored within this word
limit.
Using Tools on the menu bar in Microsoft Word, check your spelling and grammar and make the necessary changes
Remember: Good academic writing is clear, straightforward and grammatically correct. Sentences do not have to be
overlong or use very complex vocabulary.
Referencing
All essays must be referenced according to the guidelines set out
or
<http://prodmams.rmit.edu.au/s9sx559hurvc.rtf.>.
or
<www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
5. Report Writing
What is a business report?
A report is a document that:
records an investigation into a specific problem(s)/ subject.
analyses researched information.
contains factual / statistical information.
makes recommendations about how to resolve the problems that have been addressed.
and/or the type of action that should be taken.
sets out information in a formal and structured manner using numbered headings and sub-headings to make
it easier to read and access the information.
A business report is written in a simple, ordered and precise manner to ensure that the information provided is easy to
read and to access.
What is the purpose of a business report?
Reports are usually written for specific readers to communicate information which has been compiled as a result of
research and analysis of data.
Why are you required to write reports?
To develop the ability to thoroughly research a problem or an issue
To analyse the results
To record and draw conclusion from the analysis
To communicate that information clearly and concisely
Employers value people who have developed these skills in written communication.
In organisations and businesses, reports are often used as the basis on which major decisions are made.
What are the different types of reports?
There are many different types of reports. They vary according to the reason/s for the report and for the purpose it will
serve for the intended reader.
In the College of Business, you are required to develop the skills of report writing using investigative methods and
research from a variety of sources
Note: Always check your Course Guide for the required report format to ensure that you are meeting the
specific assessment criteria.
A step by step guide to report writing
If you are given a list of topics from which to choose, select the one that interests you the most or that may have
relevance to your chosen career.
If you are allowed to create your own report topic choose a subject that you want to learn more about and that interests
you or is a current problem in your workplace that you wish to address.
Step 2 Read the instructions relating to your assessments as set down in your Course Guide
Always check your course guide to ensure that you are clear about what you are required to do.
When is the report due?
How long is it?
What is the format?
What is the structure?
How does this topic relate to the course?
How does this topic relate to the current area being studied?
Break the topic into its component parts to understand what the main issue is that must be addressed.
Report topics can usually be divided into three sections:
Content What is the issue or problem to be addressed?
Instruction What have you been asked to do in relation to the topic?
Scope How has the topic been limited is there a focus on particular
organisations/ countries /year(s)?
Underline key words and draw circles around the action/instruction words.
It is really important that you understand what the instruction words are telling you to do.
Step 4 Brain storm what do you already know about the issue?
A brainstorm is the beginning of a mind map these random ideas can be organised into a structured mind map that
will provide you with a guide for your research and your writing.
Using your reading, lectures and your own experiences think about what you already know about the problem/
issue.
On a blank piece of paper, write down all the ideas that you think might be related to the subject under review
Write down where you think you need to go to get information other than from books, journals websites etc.
Think about who you know in business who you might be able to interview.
Although you are required to read and research widely, it is better to gain an overview of the topic by firstly reading the
recommended texts dont go straight online unless instructed to do so by your lecturer or tutor.
The texts will give you a broad understanding of .the main ideas, writers and theories associated with the issue.
By familiarising yourself with the key concepts, the next stage of your investigation will be more targeted.
Step 6 Mind mapping
A mind map is a visual way of gathering your ideas about a particular topic.
Mind maps help you to identify the main ideas and what research needs to be conducted to provide the evidence that
supports these ideas.
Your mind map is a good time management resource. It will help you focus your search for information more efficiently
and to organise your ideas into a coherent and logical structure when you write your report.
Table 16
Mind mapping for reports
Topic question On a blank piece of paper, write down the topic.
Key ideas Use the brain storming notes and information gained
from general reading to jot down the key ideas. This is
the first step in developing a mind map.
Research As you continue to do research, start to put the
information into groups so that you can see the
connections between ideas/theories. This will help you
to sort out which are the key ideas and what is the
supporting information.
Delete any unnecessary ideas Once you have completed this task, you can delete any
unnecessary ideas that you have now identified as
irrelevant.
Single page Keep your mind map to a single page.
For more information on mind mapping go to the Learning Lab - Study Skills <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
As Business students you need to be familiar with current trends and thinking. Websites, newspapers and journals will
be important resources for your research.
When you are using the online resources use the search engines provided by the university such as Factiva, Proquest,
Blackwell Synergy, IBIS world, Informit. These will provide you with sources that can be relied on for accuracy and
integrity.
At this stage you must read with a purpose and only make notes when you are sure that the text has the information
you need to use in your assessment task.
Always make sure you have recorded the full reference list entry details you will need this information later.
For more information on recording your research go to the interactive online referencing resource for Business students
<www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/referencing>.
Refer to your course guide for recommended reading lists. If there are no recommended texts, you will need to use
resources available through the Library data bases <www.rmit.edu.au/library>.
Hints and Tips on Efficient Reading Strategies
Once you have identified the key words and concepts relating to the topic, use these reading strategies to
make your research more efficient and to maximise the use of your time.
Skim and scan. Use key words and concepts to quickly locate information
Use chapter headings, abstracts, introductions, conclusions to find the main ideas the writer is exploring
if they are relevant continue
Make notes when key information has been identified
Contact the Library Liaison Officer for your course if you need assistance. For additional help with reading more
efficiently visit the Learning Lab <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
Hints and Tips on Critical Reading
One of your tasks when researching is to determine the validity, accuracy and credibility of your sources. This
requires you to consider carefully what you are reading. It is always important to critically examine the
statements being made and the evidence being used.
For your assessment tasks you will often be using the websites of companies and organisations. The
information they provide will be positive and promotional so it is important to question the objectivity and
reliability of the data.
Do this by considering the following questions:-
Who is the writer?
When was the article written?
What evidence has the writer provided to support their argument?
How convincing is it? Why? - What are the grounds for saying so?
How logical is it? - Again, what are the grounds for saying so?
What assumptions / overgeneralizations does the writer make?
What are the implications of this work?
What has the writer failed to consider? Where are the gaps?
Is there evidence of bias?
Do you agree or disagree with this writers standpoint?
With which parts of the argument do you agree/disagree, and for what reasons?
Is the methodology / the analysis appropriate?
Are there any weaknesses or errors in the writing or calculations?
What are primary information sources?
Students are required to use primary sources whenever possible. This means that you read and reference the original
works of the authors. Information you have gathered from first hand experience eg. an interview or survey is also a
primary source.
What are secondary information sources?
When you use the ideas /words of one author that have appeared in another writers text you are using a secondary
source.

Below are two examples of how to use a secondary source in a sentence:
(1) Bartlett and Ghoshal (cited in Daft 2004) suggest that companies expanding into global markets are forced to
do so because of economic, technological and competitive factors, which relate to economies of scale,
economies of scope and cheaper production factors.
(2) Companies expanding into global markets are forced to do so because of economic, technological and
competitive factors, which relate to economies of scale, economies of scope and cheaper production factors
(Bartlett & Ghoshal, cited in Daft 2004).
Collecting the data for a report takes place over an extended period of time. Before you start writing, you need to use
your mind map, your notes from various sources, texts, websites, surveys, interviews and more to draw up a report
plan identifying the main ideas and the evidence that supports those ideas.
A plan is like a road map which allows you to have a clear understanding of the direction your report is going to take. A
detailed plan can help you to have confidence when you start to write. You know what you want to write, why you are
including it and the logical order in which to present it.
Step 9 Writing the report
Report Structure
It is important to follow your course guidelines or company /organisation instructions for your industry projects as
guidelines for how to present your report are generally given to you. However, if you have not been given instructions
about the format of your report, below is listed the structure of a business report.
Reports are generally divided into the following sections:-
Cover sheet (use the RMIT cover sheet as per your course guide)
Title page
Acknowledgements (if necessary)
Table of contents
Executive Summary
Introduction
Main section(s) of the report
Conclusion
Recommendations
Appendices
Glossary
Reference List
Table 17 covers each part in detail.
Table 17
Sections of a report
Explanation
Cover sheet
Download from the
Course Guide
Every assignment must have the cover sheet stapled to the front of your assignment.
See <http://mams.rmit.edu.au/7ksj9bbov094.doc>.
Title page The title of the report copied from the Course Guide.
If you have created your own project then the title needs to be a clear explanation of
what the report is about
The title page also includes:-
Student name and number
Lecturers name or the manager who requested the report
Date the report was submitted
Name and number of the course
Table of Contents The Table of Contents provides the reader with an easy guide to where information is
located in the report.
Any report that is longer than a few pages needs a Table of Contents.
The Table of Contents lists
sections, sub-sections of the report and the corresponding page numbers.
diagrams and appendices.
.
The Table of Contents should be written when the final draft has been completed to
ensure that the page numbers and headings match.

All numbering must be consistent and accurate.
For instructions on how to generate an automated Table of Contents in Microsoft Word
go to <http://office.microsoft.com/en-au/word/HP051892931033.aspx>. This enables
you to match headings and page numbers into your Table of Contents.
Abstract/ Executive
Summary
In companies and organisations, the Executive Summary is critically important as
managers tend to read this section first to gain an overview of the whole report.
The Executive Summary
provides a short and comprehensive summary of the whole report.
gives the bare facts of the report including the findings and conclusions.
provides enough detail for the reader to have a clear understanding of the
main facts and critical findings.
is typically very short.
is written in the past tense as it is a record of what has been done.
Although the Executive Summary appears at the beginning of the report, this section
should be written after the report has been finalised and you have had time to reflect
on the report as a whole.
Introduction The Introduction provides a brief, accurate background for the main section of the
report.
Introductions typically include
the purpose of the report/ background
the scope, methods used issues covered/not covered
the limitations of the report and outlines terms of reference/definitions
Questions to be considered-
What is the situation that has made an investigation into the issue or problem
necessary?
How will the research be carried out?
What are the aims/ objectives? What are you setting out to do? (These objectives
will be addressed throughout the report and provide the framework for the research
and the conclusions).
Scope-
Often an issue will be extremely broad and you will need to narrow the focus to the
specific areas to be investigated.
There will be other factors that limit the scope of the report. State what they are e.g.
time, budget, geographical location, client availability, a particular company
Terminology -
If there are terms or words that are critical to an understanding of the report but may
be unfamiliar to the reader, introduce them and define what they mean as used within
the report.
Main section(s) of the
report
may include:
a literature review
(optional depending on
assessment
instructions)
Methodology
Findings
Analysis
There is no particular formula for this section of the report. What you are required to
do is to thoroughly investigate, examine and analyse the factors that impact the current
situation.

There is often a Literature Review as a component of your report.
The research methodology(ies) and the reasons why you have chosen them need to
be explained.

A variety of methods can be used depending on the problem being investigated.
Examples of methodologies include questionnaires, focus groups, interviews,
experiments, literature searches.
The findings / results from the research are documented and analysed.
Your research needs to be presented in a logical sequence using numbered headings
that clearly show the reader what information is contained in each paragraph.
Note: Refer to your Course Guide to ensure that your report meets the
assessment criteria.
Conclusion The conclusion summarises the main points investigated and comments on the
significance of the findings.
The conclusion/s are based on the results of the research you have conducted and not
on your personal opinion. All the conclusions must be supported by the material / facts
you have presented in the report.
Remember the conclusion/s should always relate back to the stated objectives of the
report.
Do not introduce new ideas /theories/ issues in the conclusion.
Recommendations The recommendations are based on the conclusions and provide possible solutions or
courses of action to resolve the problems examined in the report. when and how action
should be taken
Having completed the report, recommendations may include any of the following
what action should be taken and who should be involved in its implementation
what could have been done differently to achieve better more comprehensive
outcomes
what possible costs or risks are involved in carrying out your
recommendations
what makes this the best solution
what further research might be conducted for continuous improvement
Appendix / Appendices Information that is not essential to the general understanding of the report but may be
important in supplying further information for the reader is placed in an Appendix:
a copy of the questionnaire you have used when interviewing
a financial statement / annual reports
technical data
The information in the Appendix must be discussed in the main part of your report and
the reader directed to both the Appendix number and the page where it can be found.
Glossary If you have used words, phrases and terms which may not be familiar to the reader,
you need to place these in an alphabetical list accompanied by a short explanation.
If they are unusual or essential to an understanding of the text, such terms should be
defined at the beginning of the report or the reader should be directed to refer to the
glossary.
Reference List All the references used n your report must be documented fully in the reference list
using the Harvard system used by RMIT College of Business.
The guide to RMIT referencing can be found at <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/
referencing>.
If you have not used Harvard referencing before, the online tutorial on
<www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>. will help you.
Step 10 Using your plan to start writing
In Step 8 you wrote a detailed plan which included the various sources, texts, websites, surveys, interviews that you
researched for your report. Your plan has identified the main ideas and the evidence that supports those ideas.
Sort your plan into sections so that you know what you want to include in the introduction, the various paragraphs in the
main part of your report, the conclusion and recommendations. The more organised this plan is, the easier it will be to
write the report.
Using the detailed plan you have now developed, set aside a block of time to write the first draft of your report. Aim to
write the whole report in the time you have set aside as this will give your work a clear flow. Do not be concerned at
this stage with headings, numbering systems, correct grammar, spelling, or referencing as this will be done at the
editing stage.
Once you have written this first draft it will be much easier to see where evidence is lacking, and where information
could be more logically re-organised. Then you can start to create headings and subheadings related to each section
of information.
Leave the numbering of each section until you have a final draft.
As you will probably need to write several drafts before the report is ready for submission, make sure you have allowed
sufficient time to do this.
When you write your essay, you will need to use techniques such as paraphrasing and synthesising.
Paraphrasing is expressing in your own words the ideas of another writer.
Synthesising is the ability to express in your own words the similarities or differences in the ideas of a number
of authors.
You must always acknowledge the sources for your ideas even when you use your own words. For more
information on how to paraphrase and synthesise go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
For more information on how to reference when paraphrasing go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/
referencing>.
Direct quotations are when you use the exact words of the author/source.
You may use direct quotation in your assessment tasks, but these should be kept to a minimum.
Whenever quoting from any source you must correctly reference the work. For further information on how to
reference direct quotes, go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/bus/public/referencing>.
For more information on direct quotes, go to <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
Step 12 Formatting your report
Headings
A report is divided into numbered sections using headings and subheadings which highlight the main parts and ideas
within the report. Headings need to be brief and informative.

Headings are used to:
separate the text into smaller, more manageable units that summarise the content of each headed section.
assist the reader to find information quickly and easily.
present a new idea / aspect of the content.
A sub-heading is used when this idea is extended and further explored.
Numbering system
You need to use a consistent numbering system to identify the different sections of a report. It is recommended that
you use the decimal system as shown in the example below.
1 MANUFACTURING
1.1 Staff
1.1.1 Recruitment
1.1.2 Training
1.1.3 Salary
1.1.4 Promotion
1.2 Equipment
1.2.1 Costing and budgeting
1.2.2 Ordering
1.2.3 Repair and maintenance
1.3 Inventory
1.3.1 Raw materials
1.3.2 Component parts
1.3.3 Inventory management
1.4 Output
1.4.1 Work in progress
1.4.2 Finished goods
2 SALES
2.1 Staff
2.1.1 Recruitment
All numbered sections and headings must all be included in the Table of Contents and must match with the respective
page numbers. This ensures that the reader can access information easily.
Remember each page of your report must also be numbered.
Style of language
Reports are intended to be read easily and to provide quick access to information. You are writing about facts or
relevant pieces of information. Therefore the style of language is simple and direct.
Sentences should not be complicated - state the point you are making clearly and directly.
A report is written in an objective and impersonal manner as it is presenting facts. Unless you have been asked for
your personal opinion you should not be using personal pronouns such as you, we and I. Do not offer your own
personal point of view.
Language needs to be formal. Do not use abbreviations or slang or SMS.
Table 18
Examples of the language used in the different sections of a report
Reasons for the report This report was commissioned as a result of ongoing
concerns about..
The report sets out to examine the reasons for
This report investigated..
Objectives This report aims to explore the options available...
The main objectives of the report are to examine the
reasons
This report examines the relationship between
Methodology In order to review current procedures
Staff members were asked to complete an on-line
questionnaire
Findings The investigation clearly showed that
Initial findings suggest that .
Conclusions Analysis of the data showed that
The following conclusion can be drawn from the
investigation
Recommendations It is recommended that
Because of the , it is suggested that the following
actions be considered.
Do NOT use informal language. Note the way impersonal and passive language has been used in Table 19.
Table 19
Informal versus formal language
Informal Formal
I think that this sort of thing should never happen again. Correct procedures, as set out in the Staff Manual, must
be followed so that such incidents do not occur again.
I reckon if customers are unhappy about the service or
our product, the boss needs to know.
When complaints are made, the problem needs to be
reported and the situation monitored.
You should have got the minutes by now. The minutes for the AGM has been circulated to all
participants.
Cul8r The committee will meet tomorrow.
Bullet points
In some reports, bullet points are acceptable. Check that they are allowed in your report.
When you use bullet points as part of the sentence, each bullet point is in lower case and should be grammatically
correct, e.g.
The success of a report depends on:-
the objectivity of the presentation
the value of the research
the analysis of relevant information
the ease with which information can be accessed
Use of visual material
Graphic materials, e.g. figures, tables, illustrations and charts are a very useful way of presenting information.
If used in the text, visual material should be positioned as close as possible to the discussion and cited appropriately,
both in the text and the reference list.
If used in the Appendices, they should be clearly labelled and referred to in the discussion within the report. They must
also be cited appropriately and listed in the Table of Contents.
In your discussion, you will need to inform the reader what the graphic material represents, e.g. point out any important
trends or generalisations and highlight the significant point(s) you are making.
Different types of figures and tables fulfill different functions. You should always choose the most appropriate type
of illustration for your purpose. For example:-
line graphs are useful for showing trends,
bar graphs clearly show comparisons
pie charts can be used to show sub-categories in relation to the whole e.g. the percentage of students
attending RMIT University classified by nationality.
If you are giving the report orally, pie charts and graphs are easier to read and understand than tables.
Refer to<www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu/content/2_AssessmentTasks/assess_tuts/Format_LL/figures.html>.
Editing your final draft
You need to edit your draft before submitting the final version.
Read your Course Guide carefully to ensure that you have met the requirements of the assignment.
Observe the word limit or you may be penalised. Word limits, as the words imply, set the limit on the number of words
that can be used. The topic has been designed so that the issues and complexities can be explored within this word
limit.
Using Tools on the menu bar in Microsoft Word, check your spelling and grammar and make the necessary changes.

Report writing checklist
Have you followed the instructions on report formatting set out in your course guide?
Table 20
Report Writing Checklist
Feature Details
Title page
Title of the assignment
Authors name
Receivers name
Name of course
Date of submission
Table of Contents
Accurate reflection of structure
List of tables/figures
Headings that match page numbers
Executive Summary
A separate page
Heading
Summary of the main points in whole assignment
Numbering
Introduction
Definition of the topic and key terms
Delineate the scope and focus of the topic
Indicate the writing task
Present a plan of the argument
Show the writers theoretical approach
Main section of the report
An introductory section
Logical developments of problem and research
Use quotations as evidence
Use secondary and primary research
Conclusions
Recommendation
Conclusion
Restate the main ideas
Give the writers personal opinion on the matter
State implications
Recommendations
Relate to the conclusions
Are they specific
Are they action orientated
Layout of the report
Headed
Numbered
Spaced as instructed (+ margins)
Final edit
Spell checked
Grammar checked electronically and personally
For more information on report writing, go to the learning lab <www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
Referencing
All reports must be referenced according to the guidelines set out at
or
<http://prodmams.rmit.edu.au/s9sx559hurvc.rtf>.
or
<www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu>.
Reference list
Cortada, J (ed). 1998, Rise of the knowledge worker, Butterworth-Heinemann, Boston.
RMIT Business 2004 RMIT Business assignment cover sheet, RMIT University, viewed 20 January 2006, <>.
RMIT University 2003a, Policy:Plagiarism, Academic Registrar s Group, RMIT University, viewed 25 August 2003, <>.
RMIT University 2003b, RMIT Regulations 6.1.1 Student Discipline, RMIT Online, viewed 19 August 2003, <>.
Shannon, J (2003), A companion to business statistics, Pearson, Frenchs Forest, NSW.
Style manual for authors, editors and printers 2002, 6th edn, John Wiley & Sons, Australia.
Bibliography
The Australian Oxford dictionary 2004, 2nd edn, Oxford University Press, South Melbourne
Collins Australian dictionary 2003, 5th edn, HarperCollins, Pymble, NSW.
Macquarie dictionary 2005, 4th edn, Macquarie Library, North Ryde, NSW.
RMIT Academic Registrar's Group 2005, Plagiarism (and how to avoid it): resources for students, RMIT University,
viewed 6 February 2006, <http://www.rmit.edu.au/academic-policy/plagiarism_resources>.
RMIT University Learning Skills Unit 2006, Learning Lab, RMIT University, viewed 6 February 2006, <http://
www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/lsu/>.
Hint: Click on link to Business at bottom of page for tutorials on literature reviewing, report writing and referencing.
RMIT University Library 2005, Copyright, plagiarism and fair use, RMIT University, viewed 6 February 2006, <http://
www.rmit.edu.au/library/info-trek/copyright> .
RMIT University Library 2005, Referencing resources, RMIT University, viewed 6 February 2006, <http://
www.rmit.edu.au/library/info-trek/referencing>.
RMIT University Teaching and Learning 2005, Academic Integrity @ RMIT, RMIT University, viewed 6 February 2006,
<http://www.rmit.edu.au/academicintegrity>.
Glossary
Instruction words likely to occur in the topic question of an essay or business report:
Table 21
Instruction words Explanation
Analyse Separate or break the subject matter into its parts to discover their nature,
proportion, function and relationships
Argue Systematically support or reject a position by presenting reasons and
evidence for acceptance or rejection, while indicating your awareness of
opposing points of view
Comment Make critical observations about the subject matter; Be careful not to write
too many generalisations
Compare Find similarities and differences between two or more ideas, events,
interpretations etc. Ensure you understand exactly what you are being
asked to compare.
Contrast Similar to Compare, the difference is that you should concentrate on
dissimilarities
Define Provide clear concise, authoritative meanings, in which you address the
nature or essential qualities of the question. Details are not necessary but
you may wish to cite the boundaries or limitations of the definition, since
meaning can extend beyond simple definitions
Describe Recall facts, processes or events. Try to provide a thorough description
emphasising the most important points. You are not asked to explain or
interpret
Discuss Present a point of view, that of others and/or your own. This will entail
both description and interpretation. Your opinion should be supported by
arguments and evidence.
Enumerate Provide a list or outline form of reply. In such essays you should recount
one by one, but concisely, the points required
Evaluate To appraise in order to make a judgment which requires consideration of
strengths and weaknesses.
Illustrate Clarify, exemplify or elucidate by presenting a figure, picture, diagram or
concrete example
List Provide an itemised series or tabulation - often expressed in point form.
Outline Give an organised description or an ordering of information in which you
state the main point, but omit details. Present the information in a
systematic arrangement or classification
Relate When showing relationships your answer should emphasise connections
and associations in a descriptive manner.
Review Re-examine, analyse and comment briefly (in an organised sequence) on
the major points of an issue
State Formally set forth a position or declare definitely. Details and examples
can be omitted
Summarise Provide a brief statement or account covering the main points in
sequence, or assimilate parts into a general comment. Omit details
Acknowledgements
The College of Business Guidelines for referencing and presentation in written reports and essays has been designed
and developed by the Academic Development Group, College of Business, in partnership with the Study and Learning
Centre.

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