In journalism, the term special report refers to an in-depth investigation of a particular subject. This can be anything from exposing wrongdoing or corruption to exploring a technical subject matter that requires a level of expertise and understanding that not all journalists have. Specialized reporting can increase a journalist’s credibility and provide valuable insight into complex issues for their audience.
In accounting, a special report is a customized financial report that deviates from the standard format required by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. These unique reports are usually used to comply with contractual agreements or regulatory provisions and can cover specific elements, accounts or items of a financial statement. Special reports are often done independently from a normal audit, but they can also be conducted alongside one. For example, a company may use a special report to demonstrate its tax basis of accounting when it would otherwise be difficult to do during a regular audit.
Creating a successful special report involves writing with the intended audience in mind. Depending on the topic, you will need to tailor your language and tone accordingly. In addition, it is essential to include first-hand verifiable information. Graphs and other visual representations can help convey important information in an engaging way. However, be sure to avoid adding in unnecessary appendices that only distract from the main report and diminish its overall impact. Additionally, misspellings and odd formatting can make your report appear rushed and unprofessional.