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University o f Ilorin, Mec ha nica l Eng ineering Dep artment, Tec hnica l rep ort 2008-06
Awed a, J.O a nd Lasod e O .A
1
A GUIDE TO REPORT WRITING IN ENGINEERING
J. O. Aweda and O. A. Lasode
Mechanical Engineering Department,
University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria1.0 INTRODUCTION
Report writing is one of the primary professional responsibilities of the practicing
engineer. The presentation of final report of any project is not just a formality but also a
primary product of the effort of the reporter's professional abilities. Report is often the
basis for the evaluation of the work done by the engineer. Report also serves a secondary
function of giving information to those in need of such information. The format required of
a report depends on the type of report being presented. Oni [1] in his work presented an
overview of how agricultural engineering research project report should be presented.
There are different types of engineering reports. These include project report, commission
project report etc. Whichever type of report being presented, it must speak on its own.
Report should be subjected to review by a number of readers before the final submission is
made. During review, it is subject to critical analysis. Before starting to write a
report, make sure that the goal and scope are well defined. This is to make sure that the
report adequately addresses the main points of the report. The report should be as short,
concise and straight to the point as possible. The value of a report does not depend on its
length but on its accuracy and clarity of its content. Each section of the report has a
specific function and the writer must meet minimum requirements. If each section is
written so that it performs its intended function, the final report will be a clearly and
efficiently written report.
2.0 CONTENT OF PROJECT REPORT
A typical report format should follow the pattern below:
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1. Title page
2. Approval page
3. Dedication
4. Acknowledgement
5. Abstract
6. Table of Contents
7. List of Tables
8. List of Figures
9. Nomenclature
10. Main body of the Report
11. References
12. Appendices (optional, depending on the nature of the project)
3.0 GUIDELINES FOR WRITING THE COMPONENTS OF THE REPORT
3.1 Title Page
The name of the institution is written first followed by the title of the report, name of the
author and the purpose for which the report is submitted. The title of the report should be
brief (not more than 20 words) and it should accurately reflect the content of the report.
Example of title page is shown in figure 3.1.
3.2 Approval Page
The name of the Institution, the Department and a statement by the writer is written. A
statement by the writer stating his name and the topic is required here. The names of the
project supervisor, the Head of Department and possibly the External Examiner to sign the
report with dates also appear here. An example of approval page is shown in figure 3.2.
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3.3 Dedication
The project report may be dedicated to anyone who has endeared himself or herself to the
writer. This could be to a friend, family member, or loved one whether living or deceased
who possibly has made an impact to the person in the process of writing the report.
Dedication can also be towards bringing awareness to certain events or situations around
the world. Dedication is however optional. An example of dedication is shown in figure
3.3.
3.4 Acknowledgements
This is the page in which the writer expresses appreciation for the assistance and
encouragement received from various individuals and organizations while working on the
project. They include those who made technical and financial contributions or helped to
influence the work positively. Acknowledgement of institutions and individuals who made
facilities available at any stage of the project gives the report some credibility. An example
of acknowledgements is shown in figure 3.4.
3.5 Abstract
The abstract is as an overview, synopsis or summary of the report. This is often written last
after the main body of the report is completed, as its purpose is to provide a summary of
the reports essential information.
Abstract, as presented by Olorunmaiye [2] should contain the following elements:
* A statement of the engineering problem attempted to solve,
* An explanation of the approach or methodology to solving the problem,
* The main finding i.e. Results,
* The main conclusion,
* Applications of the findings, and
* The abstract should not exceed 200 words in a single paragraph.
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Abstract is used to decide whether or not the content of the report is relevant and for
academic purposes. It allows researchers to quickly review literature and significant
findings on a particular topic. An example of abstract is shown in figure 3.5.
UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN
SAND CASTING OF AN IMPELLER BLADE
BY
BABA, KOLAWOLE ALIYU
A PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THEREQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
DEGREE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
ILORIN, NIGERIA
OCTOBER 2008
Figure 3.1 Example of title page
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UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
The undersigned certify that this project report prepared by BABA,
KOLAWOLE ALIYU (MATRIC. No---) Titled: SAND CASTING OF AN
IMPELLER BLADE meets the requirements of the Department of Mechanical
Engineering for the Award of Bachelor of Engineering (B.ENG) Degree in
Mechanical Engineering.
------------------------ --------------------
------------------------- --------------------
----------------------------- --------------------
Dr. J. O. AWEDA DATE
(Supervisor)
Dr. I. K. ADEGUN DATE
(Ag. Head of Department)
EXTERNAL EXAMINER DATE
Figure 3.2 Example of approval page
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DEDICATION
This project is dedicated to the memory of Pa JJ, who taught me how to be obedient
and hardworking.
Figure 3.3 Example of dedication
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3.6 Table of Contents
In the Table of Contents, the main headings and sub-headings and the page numbers in
which they begin are listed. Note that each chapter, section and subsection must have a
heading and such a heading must be written in the Table of Contents exactly as it appears
in the main body of the report. An example of table of content is shown in figure 3.6.
3.7 List of Tables
The use of tables enables the writer to present the data in a logical and concise manner.
Tables according to Olorunmaiye [2] must be according to the following points:
1. The table number and table title should be written bold at the top of the table. The
title must reflect the content of the table,
2. A table should be self-explanatory so that it can be read and understood without
referring to the text of the report,
3. Table should be on a separate page and it must be referred to in the text,
4. Table should be arranged to come close to where it is being referred to in the text,
5. If a table is too big and the title has to be typed along the length of the page, be sure
to arrange the page in such a way that the top of the table is near the bound end of
the page (landscape orientation),
6. Tables may be numbered according to the chapter and sequence in which they
appear, i.e. Table 2.1, Table 3.3 etc. (Table 2.1 means Chapter 2 Table 1). An
example of list of tables is shown in figure 3.7.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I am highly appreciative of the effort of my supervisor Dr. J.O. Aweda for taking
time to read through this report and his positive criticism of the project. Sincere
acknowledgement is given to my father for his effort and concern while this course
lasts.
My deep appreciation to the Mr KJ the University Technologist for the assistance
rendered towards the successful implementation of this project.
Figure 3.4 Example of acknowledgements
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ABSTRACT
Commercially pure aluminium metal was used to sand cast impeller blade used in
water pumps. The pattern was made of hard wood. The molten aluminium metal was
poured at superheat temperature of between 60 and 800C. The time of pouring of
molten metal into the sand cavity was also varied and was within 5 to 10 seconds.
The results show that increase in superheat temperature increases the quality of cast
impeller blade. The time of pouring has no significant influence on the quality of cast
metal.
Please note that if there is any comparison with the experimental, numerical and/or with the literature,
it is worth mentioning in the abstract.
Figure 3.5 Example of abstract
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title page i
Approval/Certification page ii
Dedication iii
Acknowledgement iv
Abstract v
Table of Contents vi
List of Tables vii
List of Figures viii
Nomenclature ix
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION 1
Sub-Topics
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY
CHAPTER FOUR: MATHEMATICAL FORMULATIONS
CHAPTER FIVE: MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER SIX: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
CHAPTER SEVEN: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
REFERENCES
APPENDIX I: CORNER EFFECTS
Figure 3.6 Example of table of contents
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LIST OF TABLES
TABLES TITLES OF TABLES PAGE
3.1 Maximum temperatures obtained with corresponding
delay times while applying pressure on the solidifying metal
with die heating (P = 85.86MPa, TM=3000C) 8
Figure 3.7 Example of list of tables11
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3.8 List of Figures
The figures in the report may include charts, graphs, drawings, photographs and schematic
diagrams. The use of figures makes the write-up clearer. Graphs should be neatly and
carefully drawn on graph paper or plotted with a computer, and axes must be properly
labelled and scaled.
Take note of the following points on figures:
1. The title of a figure and figure number should be written at the bottom of the
figure. The title must reflect accurately what is presented in the figure.
2. More than one figure could be on a page, but the figure should not be clumsy,
3. Each figure should appear as soon as possible after it is referred to in the text.
4. The figure could be drawn clearly and neatly using a pen. Avoid handwritten
labels.
5. Placing photocopy of diagram is not allowed. However, the diagram may be traced
and the source acknowledged where the title is written.
6. If the figure is a graph, make sure that the axes are well labelled.
7. Figures are to be numbered using Arabic numerals. Number the figures according
to the chapter in which they appear and the sequence in each chapter i.e. figure 2.1,
figure 3.2 etc. Example of a figure is shown in figure 3.5. (figure 2.1 means chapter
2 figure 1).
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LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURES TITLES OF FIGURES PAGE
3.1 Example of title page 4
3.2 Example of approval page 5
3.3 Example of dedication 6
3.4 Example of acknowledgements 8
3.5 Example of abstract 9
3.6 Example of table of contents 10
3.7 Example of list of tables 11
3.8 Example of list of figures 13
3.9 Calibration graphs for digital voltmeter and chart
recorder using thermocouple (Type K) as sensor 14
3.10 Example of nomenclature 15
Figure 3.8 Example of list of figures
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Table 3.1 Maximum temperatures obtained with corresponding delay times while
applying pressure on the solidifying metal with die heating (P = 85.86MPa,
TM=3000C)
Delay time,
(sec.)
Solidifyingtemperature on
pressure
application
(0C)
Maximumsolidifying
temperature
attained, after
retention time
of 55sec. (0C)
Time ofreaching
maximum
temperature
(sec.)
Temperaturerise
(0C)
1
5
10
20
30
709.54
700.01
696.25
674.77
657.57
738.27
733.26
721.22
720.01
707.89
56.85
57.76
68.57
75.06
86.51
28.73
33.25
24.97
45.24
50.32
Figure 3.9 Calibration graphs for digital voltmeter and chart recorder using
thermocouple (Type K) as sensor
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200
Temperature reading,0C
Furnancetemperature,
0C
Voltmeter temperature reading
Chart ploter temperature reading
3.9 Nomenclature
Nomenclature or notation is the list of all the symbols used in the report and their meaning
presented in a tabular form. Roman letters used as symbols may be listed first, followed by
Greek letters, the subscripts, superscripts, operators and abbreviations. An example of
nomenclature is shown in figure 3.8.
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NOMENCLATURE
Symbol Non-dimensional Form Meaninga A = a/a0 Speed of sound
E Activation energy
C -Electrical conductivity,
h -Mould thickness
R -Radius of metal mould,
T -Temperature,
Greek Symbols -strain rate,
D = /0 Density
-friction factor,
Superscripts
t -time
Subscripts
s -solid state
Abbreviations
CPU -Central processing unit
Figure 3.10 Example of nomenclature
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4.0 MAIN BODY OF THE REPORT
4.1 Introduction
Introduction is the first part of the main body of the report. The function of the
introduction is to describe the purpose and scope of the project. The body of the report
should be tied to the information given in the introduction. Generally, the reader is first
introduced to the overall topic, the methodology of approach to solving the problem and
then to the specific areas addressed in the report. A length of about 1 to 2 pages of
introduction should be sufficient except in few special situations. The background to the
project is presented with sufficient details to enable the reader understand why the study
was undertaken. Introduction should be closed with a section on the objectives of the
project, the constraints and limitations to the project clearly stated.
4.2 Literature review
This may form part of the chapter on introduction or it may be a separate chapter. It is
expected that work done by others in the past that are relevant to the present work be
discussed briefly. This constitutes the foundation on which the intended report is built on.
The review of the literature summarizes and evaluatesthe previous authors contribution to
the present study. It states how literature has contributed to the area of research and gives
appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of previous studies. It also informs the writers
understanding of the research problem.
Teitelbaum [3] noted that while reviewing the work done by others, there are five
types of notes that can be taken. They are:
i. Quotation (use authors exact words),
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ii. Paraphrasing (use the authors idea in another words),
iii. Summarising (use authors main points),
iv. Copying (use authors figures, tables or charts), and
v. Personal reactions or comments on the work.
Direct quotation should be used sparingly in the write-up and it should be brief, starting
and ending with inverted commas (quotation marks). When paraphrasing, the ideas are
stated in the writers own words. This is an alternative to direct quotation. Teitelbaum [3]
has suggested that to ensure that the writer uses his own words, he reads the portion of the
text to be paraphrased, close the book and then write down the idea in his own words. A
summary is the gist of the work being reviewed stated in the writers own words. Personal
reactions or comments may be an appraisal or otherwise of the results or the methodology
of obtaining the results. In writing the project report, the advice of Tarpley [4] quoted
below is worthy of note.
Give credit for all ideas, research and information not original. If credit is not assigned, this is
known as plagiarism and it is unethical. Do not copy the exact words from some source and then
use them as your own.
Give credit to the source of an idea by writing the number associated with that source in
the list of references in a square bracket or writing the authors name and year.
4.3 Methodology
Methodology explains how data was gathered or generated and how it was analysed. The
method of analysis should be fully justified in the write up while considering other
methods of analysis that are previously been adopted or may be adopted. The language
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used is in the past tense. The research carried out is what to be discussed in details and not
the activities of the researcher leading to the research work.
4.4 Mathematical Formulations
The symbols used should be defined immediately after the equation and also in the
nomenclature. All equations should be numbered consecutively using Arabic numerals
written in brackets ( ) on the right margin, in order to distinguish them from any reference
numbers which may appear in square brackets. Equations should begin on a new line and
be referred to in the text in the same manner, e.g. inserting equations (1) and (2) into
equation (3). Equations should be typed with Microsoft equation editor available in all
Microsoft words.
Equation should be written as;
( )1V
PI=
and not as
I = P (1)
V
4.5 Materials and Equipment
Materials, instruments and pieces of equipment used should be mentioned in the write-up.
The serial numbers, name and place of manufacturer should also be mentioned. A
photograph of the experimental rig or prototype of the machine produced must be included
in the write-up.
4.6 Experimental Procedure
The procedure used in gathering the experimental data should be given in detail. Any
precaution taken and difficulties encountered should be mentioned. Proper description of
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any equipment constructed for the purpose of the project work should be made in the
write-up.
4.7 Results and Discussion
With diagrams, graphs, tables, charts etc., the results are presented by giving clear
explanations on the results obtained. The results are to be compared with what has been in
previous literatures highlighting conformity or deviation. The purpose of the discussion of
results is to communicate what was learned and how the results lead to the conclusions.
The results are discussed in terms of what they show about the results and what they mean
in the context of the goal of the report. Explanation of results should include comments on
unexpected results and offering reasons or hypothesis for such behaviour. The discussion
forms the bridge between the original observations and what they will ultimately mean to
the reader. And finally a statement on how the result findings can be applied in
engineering or daily life is discussed.
4.8 Conclusions
On the basis of the results obtained the conclusions are drawn. Conclusion is a concise
statement(s) of the results and their significance to the topic or knowledge.
4.9 Suggestions for further work
Suggestions for further work could be in areas that the writer wished could have extended
the work to if time permits. It is to guide future workers working on similar topics who
want to extend the study. Suggestions for further work are important to those who must act
on the report.
5.0 REFERENCES AND APPENDICES
5.1 References
References must be provided in the report if someone elses opinions, theories, data or
research findings were used. Failure to indicate the sources of the ideas may
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suggest that the writer is wrongfully claiming another persons ideas or words to be his
own. This is known as plagiarism an offence punishable in academic circle. Referencing of
sources is also encouraged because it strengthens a writers argument and adds credibility
to the write up. Referencing shows wide knowledge in the subject matter and identifies the
critical aspects of other research in a similar area.
There are two different types of reference lists used in engineering:
Alphabetical reference list according to author used with the author-date
(Harvard) system,
Numbered reference list in order of their appearance in the text used with the
numerical system.
Whichever format is adopted there must be consistency. However, the numbered reference
system is adopted for project write-up. Examples of how to reference are listed below from
different publications.
Journals
1. Sule, B.F., 1989, Use of correlation and regional statistics methods to construct
streamflow record, The Nigerian Engineer, vol.24, No2, pp29-36.
2. Oyeleke, I.F., Olaoye, J.O., Faseyi, S.A., 2004, Capacity utilization of wetland
(fadama) infrastructure in Kwara State, Nigeria, Nigerian Journal of Technological
Development, Vol 4(1), December, pp64-72.
Books
3. Adedayo, S. M., 2000, Graphics for Engineers, INDEMAC (Nigeria Publishers)
Limited, Ilorin, Nigeria.
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4. Hannah, J, and Hillier, M.J. 1999, Applied Mechanics, Longman, UK.
5. Holman, J.P., 2001, Heat Transfer, TATA McGraw-Hill, New Delhi.
Thesis
6. Terebo, M., 2007, Investigation of the foundry properties of some natural sand
deposits: A case study of Ilesha and Ilorin moulding sand, B.Eng, Project Report,
Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria.
Reports
7. Lubard, S.C. and Helliwell, W.S., 1973, Calculation of the flow on a cone at a high
angle of Attack, R & D Associates, Santa Monica, Calif., RDA TR 150, Feb.
Proceedings
8. Ukaegbu, O.D. 1999, Managing Nigerias energy sector for sustainable national
development, Proceedings of the National Engineering Conference and AGM,
Ilorin, Nigeria, pp205-217.
9. Kaufman, H.R., and Cohen, A.J., 1971, Maximum propellant utilization in an
electron bombardment thruster, Proceedings of the Symposium on Ion Sources
and Formation of Ion Beams, edited by T.J.M. Sluyters, Brookhaven National
Laboratory, Oct., pp61-68.
5.2 Appendix
Appendices contain standard derivations, maps and lists of parameters, which would
interfere with the continuity of the main body of the report. All documents in the
appendix, which is not the authors work, should be properly referenced. Appendix should
be numbered consequentially, i.e. Appendix I, Appendix II etc. Appendix with large
figures should be reduced to A3 size where possible to avoid multiple folding. In most
cases appendix contains:
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All the figures corresponding to the report.
Photocopies of documents, cuttings and all traced drawings.
Other material which may be crucial to the report
6.0 ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
6.1 Report Formatting
Appropriate formatting of reports improves the readability accessibility of information.
The Department outlines the essential formatting guidelines required of the report. Reports
should maintain the same internal style and structure throughout. Reports are processed on
the computer. White A4 paper, printing on one side only is preferred for project report
while each chapter of the report begins on a new page. The recommended margins are
3.0cm on the left, 2.5 on the right sides, and 3.0cmm at the top and bottom of the paper.
Use double spacing, Times New Roman in 12-point font size normal size for the body of
the report. The title page should not be numbered while all other preliminary pages are in
Roman numerals. All other pages from introduction page to the end of the appendices are
numbered in the middle bottom page (footer) in Arabic numerals. One space between
heading and subheading, one space between paragraphs, and two spaces between the end
of a section and the next heading is required. The supervisor can provide some help
regarding the technical accuracy of the report.
6.2 Technical Language
Effective use of technical language is a critical part of report writing. Important aspects of
technical language to be considered are structure, grammar, vocabulary and punctuations.
A quality engineering report exhibits the following characteristics:
i. Clearstatement of aim or purpose,
ii. Conciseand precise presentation of detail,
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iii. Cohesive and logical development of data and ideas,
iv. Considered objective separation of fact and opinion, and
v. Categorised layout of well-spaced headings, paragraph
6.3 Appearance
Spelling, grammar and neatness are important components of report writing. Clear and
simple English should be used with simple sentences without slang while avoiding
repetition of particular words in a report. Avoid the use of capital letters for emphasis, bold
or italics may be used where such emphasis is required. Tables and graphs should be well
organized and clearly labelled. They should be able to stand as separate entities. Scaling of
graphs should be done in such a manner that the graph is not crowded in a corner or on the
side but covers a major part of the sheet. The use of S.I. units is required. Work to some
significant figures i.e. if a diameter is determined as 6.453545mm in the calculations then
it is better written to two significant figures as 6.45mm except in few cases of iteration.
6.4 Proofreading
This is the checking of every aspect of the written work, the content, grammar, layout etc
of the write up. Do not submit any work or report without first proofreading it. It may not
be possible for the writer to proofread accurately, because of familiarity with ones job
where mistakes may not be found. Have a colleague read the report for clarity,
organization, and visual design. It can be given to somebody who is knowledgeable in the
area of the project to proofread, whose name is recorded and acknowledged.
6.5 Deadline
Be aware of the deadline for the completion of the report and try to meet it. Remember
there is normally a penalty for late submission.
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7.0 REFERENCES
1. Oni, K.C., 1995, Research reporting: A guide to thesis preparation for Agricultural
Engineers, Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Ilorin, Ilorin,
Nigeria, March.
2. Olorunmaiye, J.O., 1999, A guide for writing final year project report, Department
of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria, December.
3. Teitelbaum, H., 1975, How to write thesis, Monarch Press, New York, pp33-39
4. Tarpley, M., 1978, Paper Writing Guide, Baptist Press (Nig.) Limited, Ibadan.