Report Superstructure

Report Element	Readers' Question
Introduction	What will we gain from reading your report?
Method of Obtaining Facts	Are your facts reliable?
Facts	What do you know that is useful to us?
Discussion	How do you interpret those facts from our point of view?
Conclusion	How are those facts significant to us?
Recommendations	Based on the evidence you have gathered, what do you think we should do?

Proposal Superstructure

Report Element	Readers' Question	Your Persuasive Point
Introduction	What is the communication about?	Briefly, I propose the following.
Problem	Why is the proposed project needed?	The proposed project addresses a problem, need, or goal that is important to you.
Objectives	What features will a solution to the problem need in order to be successful?	A successful solution can be achieved if it has these features.
Methods / Resources / Schedule / Qualifications	How are you going to be able to deliver what you describe here? Do you have a sound plan?	Yes, because I have a good plan of action (method); the necessary facilities, equipment, and other resources; a workable schedule; appropriate qualifications, and a sound management plan.
Costs	What will it cost?	The cost is reasonable.

* Proposal readers are investors. You ask decision-makers to invest in some resource, such as time or money, so that the thing you propose can be accomplished. Investors are cautious, even wary.