1. Assuming that it is easier to write a short paper. It is hard to summarize a lot of information in a short space.
   

2. Improper use of apostrophe.

• Do not use apostrophe for plural. The plural of CD is CDs, not CD’s.
• Use the appropriate format of "its" versus "it's". For example, Alliance Packaging holds some inventory for its customers NOT Alliance Packaging holds some inventory for it's (which means "it is") customers.

3. Referring to a single company as “they”. However, it is correct to use the word “they” when referring to companies in plural. For example, Nike and Reebok have both reduced their prices. They know what they are doing.

• This is incorrect usage-Nike reduced its price to $90. They did not know what they were doing.
• The correct usage is- Nike reduced its price to $90. It did not know what it was doing.

4. Not rewriting a report. All good writing is rewritten.

5. Long paragraphs. Note: If you have a paragraph that is longer than a page, rewrite.

6. Not organizing reports into sections. For example, Introduction, Background, Analysis and Recommendations. The exact type (and number) of sections depends on the particular project being submitted.

7. Assuming that Microsoft Word’s spelling and grammar check will solve all writing problems.

8. Not re-reading the report before submission.

9. Mistaking Internet sources (e.g., company propaganda) for the truth.

10. Long sentences.

Last updated January 16, 2004
*Thanks to Sandeep Krishnamurthy, UW, Bothell