How should improvement suggestions or recommendations be handled in reports?

• A. If appropriate, present objective, actionable recommendations separately; avoid embedding non-reportable judgments in the narrative.
• B. Embed suggestions throughout the narrative.
• C. Leave recommendations out entirely.
• D. Make aggressive judgments in the main narrative.

Answer: (A)

Presenting improvement suggestions as objective, actionable recommendations in a separate section is the best approach. This keeps the factual narrative clean and focused on what happened, supported by evidence, while clearly distinguishing what should be done next. When recommendations are kept separate, readers can assess the findings first and then review proposed actions independently, which enhances credibility and makes it easier to assign responsibility, timelines, and measurable outcomes. Requirements such as using objective language, avoiding value judgments in the narrative, and specifying concrete steps help ensure the report remains professional and defensible.

Embedding suggestions throughout the narrative can blur the line between fact and opinion, risking misinterpretation or perception of bias. Leaving recommendations out entirely eliminates useful guidance for improvement. Making aggressive judgments in the main narrative undermines professionalism and can undermine trust in the report.