Chapter 11-Business Report Basics: Multiple Choice

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UNIT 4 Reports, Proposals, and
Chapter 11Business Report Basics

DIFFICULTY (DIF)
5 = Most difficult
3 = Average difficulty
1 = Least difficult
TYPE
Ap: Application question
Con: Conceptual question
Def: Definition
OTHER CODES
ANS: Answer
REF: Page Reference
OBJ: Chapter Objective
NOT: Note (feedback/explanations)
AAC: AACSB Competencies
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1.
Which of the following statements about business reports is most accurate?

a. Business reports are uncommon in low-context cultures.
b. Management decisions in many are organizations are based on information submitted in the
form of reports.
c. To be considered a business report, a document must be at least ten pages long.
d. All of the above are accurate statements.
ANS: B
DIF: 3
REF: p. 311 OBJ: 11-1 TYPE: Con
TOP: Understanding Report Basics
NOT:
a. Business reports are common in low-context cultures such as North America.
b. Management decisions in many organizations are based on information submitted in the form
of reports.
c. Business reports range from informal half-page trip reports to formal 200-page financial
forecasts.
d. Management decisions in many organizations are based on information submitted in the form
of reports.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns
AAC: Tier 1Diversity; Tier 2Contexts
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Conclusion
2.
What is the common purpose of all business reports?

a. To make the writer of the report look good
b. To comply with government regulations
c. To answer questions and solve problems
d. To make money for the organization
ANS: C
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
Although reports vary greatly in length, content, form, and formality level, they all have a
common purpose: to answer questions and solve problems.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Purpose
3.
Which of the following reports is an example of an informational report?

a. A report that recommends one of four different wireless services
b. A report that compares three sites for a new restaurant location and recommends one
c. A report showing how a company has complied with IRS regulations
d. A report that presents several alternatives for handling an internal problem, including
recommendations for the best solution
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ANS: C
DIF: 5
REF: p. 312 OBJ: 11-1 TYPE: Ap
NOT:
a. A report that recommends one of four different wireless services is an analytical report.
b. A report recommending one of three sites for a restaurant location is an analytical report
because it would need to provide data, analyses, conclusions, and recommendations.
c. A report showing a companys compliance with IRS regulations is informational.
d. A persuasive report presenting several alternatives for handing an internal problem would be
analytical because it would need to provide data, analyses, conclusions, and
recommendations.
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Analysis, Conclusion
4.
Which of the following reports is an example of an analytical report?

a. A report giving the details about a conference attended
b. A report showing that a public company is in compliance with SEC regulations
c. A report describing a new company policy
d. A report recommending one of three network security systems
ANS: D
DIF: 5
NOT:
a. A report giving the details about a conference attended is informational.
b. A report showing the companys compliance with SEC regulations is informational.
c. A report describing a new company policy is informational.
d. A report recommending one of three network security systems is analytical because it would
need to provide data, analyses, conclusions, and recommendations.
5.
In which of the following situations is the direct pattern of organization used for a business
report?
a. When readers must be persuaded
b. When readers are unfamiliar with the problem
c. When readers may be disappointed or hostile toward the reports findings
d. When readers are familiar with the topic
ANS: D
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Use the indirect pattern of organization when readers must be persuaded.
b. Use the indirect pattern of organization when readers are unfamiliar with the problem.
c. Use the indirect pattern of organization when readers may be disappointed or hostile toward
the reports findings.
d. Use the direct pattern of organization when readers are familiar with the topic.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Purpose, Audience
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Receiver reactions, Conclusion
6.
In which of the following situations is the indirect pattern of organization used for a business report?
a. When readers are familiar with the topic.
b. When readers must be educated about the topic.
c. When readers are supportive of the topic.
CHAPTER 11 Business Report Basics
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d. The indirect method should be used in all of the above cases.

ANS: B
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Use the direct pattern of organization when readers are familiar with the topic.
b. Use the indirect pattern of organization when readers are unfamiliar with the topic and must
be educated about it.
c. Use the direct pattern of organization when readers are supportive of the topic.
d. Use the indirect pattern of organization when readers are unfamiliar with the topic and must
be educated about it.
7.
An indirectly organized analytical report might follow which outline?

a. Introduction/Background, Facts/Findings, Summary
b. Introduction/Problem, Facts/Findings, Discussion/Analysis, Conclusions/Recommendations
c. Introduction/Problem, Conclusions/Recommendations, Facts/Findings, Discussion/Analysis
d. Introduction/Problem, Conclusions/Recommendations, Discussion/Analysis, Facts/Findings
ANS: B
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 314-315
OBJ: 11-1
TYPE:
Con
NOT A-D:
An indirectly organized analytical report might follow this outline: Introduction/Problem,
Facts/Findings, Discussion/Analysis, Conclusions/Recommendations .
8.
A directly organized informational report might follow which outline?

a. Introduction/Background, Facts/Findings, Summary
b. Introduction/Problem, Facts/Findings, Discussion/Analysis, Conclusions/Recommendations
c. Introduction/Problem, Conclusions/Recommendations, Facts/Findings, Discussion/Analysis
d. Introduction/Problem, Conclusions/Recommendations, Discussion
ANS: A
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 313-314
OBJ: 11-1
TYPE:
Con
NOT A-D:
A directly organized informational report might follow this outline: Introduction/Background,
Facts/Findings, Summary.
9.
Which of the following reports would most likely be written using an informal writing style?
a. A thesis submitted by a PhD student
b. A report presenting the findings of a six-month research study about consumer preferences
c. A report written to your supervisor summarizing a conference you attended
d. A business proposal written to secure a contract with a governmental agency
ANS: C
DIF: 5
NOT:
a. A thesis would be written using a formal writing style.
b. A report presenting the results of a research study would be written using a formal writing
style.
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c. A noncontroversial report to an insider would be written using an informal writing style.

d. A complex proposal written to an outsider would be written using a formal writing style.
10. Youll be writing a business report for a client and want to use a formal writing style. Which of
the following should you do?
a. Emphasize active-voice verbs.
b. Avoid including your own opinions and perceptions.
c. Use first-person pronouns.
d. Use shorter sentences and familiar words.
ANS: B
DIF: 5
NOT:
a. When using a formal writing style, use passive-voice verbs.
b. Reports written in a formal writing style should not include the authors opinions and
perceptions.
c. When using a formal writing style, use third-person pronouns.
d. When using a formal writing style, use complex sentences and long words.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Purpose, Rhetorical considerations
11. Which of the following constructions uses the best writing style for a formal report?
a. After checking several references, the company decided to hire the consulting firm of
Anderson, Williams, and Pardee.
b. After considerable research, we have decided to order the Aptura computer from ISB for our
office staff.
c. My research shows companies are recognizing the benefits of telecommuting.
d. Our findings support implementing the new tracking system at once.
ANS: A
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
Most formal reports use third-person constructions (the company instead of we, my, and
our) to help convey objectivity, authority, and impartiality.
12. Informal reports are written in a style that uses
a. contractions.
b. first-person pronouns, such as I, we, and our.
c. occasional humor and colorful speech.
d. All of the above.
ANS: D
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
Informal reports are written in a style that uses contractions, first-person pronouns, and
occasional humor and colorful speech.
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13. Which of the following types of reports would not be sent to someone outside the organization?
a. Manuscript format
b. Digital format
c. Letter format
d. Memo format
ANS: D
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 316-317
OBJ: 11-1
NOT:
a. Reports in manuscript format can be sent outside the organization.
b. Reports in digital format can be sent outside the organization.
c. Reports in letter format can be sent outside the organization.
d. Reports in memo format stay within organizations.
TYPE:
Con
14. Short (eight or fewer pages) informal reports addressed outside an organization are usually
presented in
a. memo format.
b. manuscript format.
c. letter format.
d. handwritten format.
ANS: C
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Memo reports are for short informal reports that stay within an organization.
b. Manuscript format is used for longer, more formal reports
c. Short (eight or fewer pages) informal reports addressed outside an organization are usually
presented in letter format.
d. Short (eight or fewer pages) informal reports addressed outside an organization are usually
presented in letter format.
15. Long formal reports are usually printed on plain paper in
a. memo format.
b. manuscript format.
c. letter format.
d. handwritten format.
ANS: B
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Short informal reports that stay within an organization are usually presented in memo format.
b. Long formal reports are usually printed on plain paper in manuscript format.
c. Short informal reports going outside an organization are usually printed in letter format.
d. Long formal reports are usually printed on plain paper in manuscript format.
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16. Which of the following is an example of a digital report?
a. A report prepared as a PDF document
b. A PowerPoint slide deck that is posted online
c. A Microsoft Word document that has hyperlinks to multimedia content
d. All of the above are examples of digital reports.
ANS: D
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
All of these (PDF documents, PowerPoint slide decks, and Microsoft Word documents with
hyperlinks to multimedia content) are examples of digital reports.
AAC: Tier 1Technology; Tier 2Word processing, Communication evolution
17. The first step in writing a report is to
a. prepare a work plan.
b. implement your research strategy.
c. analyze the problem and purpose.
d. compose the first draft.
ANS: C
DIF: 3
TOP: Applying the 3-x-3 Writing Process to Reports
NOT A-D:
The first step in writing a report is understanding the problem or assignment clearly.
18. Which of the following is the best advice for a business report writer?
a. Prepare a written purpose statement at the beginning of the project.
b. Analyze only the primary reader of the report.
c. Work plans are useful for only the longest and most formal of reports.
ANS: A
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 317-319
OBJ: 11-2
TYPE:
Ap
NOT:
a. Preparing a written purpose statement is a good idea because it defines the focus of a report
and provides a standard that keeps the project on target.
b. Concentrating solely on a primary reader is a major mistake.
c. Preparing a work plan encourages you to evaluate your resources, set priorities, outline a
course of action, and establish a time schedule, which can be useful for any type of report.
d. Preparing a written purpose statement is a good idea because it defines the focus of a report
and provides a standard that keeps the project on target.
19. Which of the following is an effective statement of purpose for an informational report?
a. The purpose of this study is to inform the reader of the many different features offered on the
2009 Porsche Panamera automobile.
b. The purpose of this study is to analyze ways to offer our customers the best service possible.
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c. The purpose of this study is to solve the problem of employee turnover at the companys
Westside store.
d. The purpose of this study is to determine which of three computer systems to purchase for
our Marketing Department staff.
ANS: A
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 317-318
OBJ: 11-2
TYPE:
NOT:
a. This is an effective statement of purpose for an informational report.
b. This would be an effective statement of purpose for an analytical report.
c. This would be an effective statement of purpose for an analytical report.
d. This would be an effective statement of purpose for an analytical report.
Ap
20. The issues or elements to be investigated in a research project are defined in the
a. significance of the study.
b. scope of the study.
c. recommendations to be offered.
d. limitations of the study.
ANS: B
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. The significance of the study tells the reader why the topic is worth investigating.
b. The scope of the study defines the issues or elements to be investigated in a research project.
c. The scope of the study defines the issues or elements to be investigated in a research project.
d. Limitations of the study include conditions that affect the generalizability and utility of a
reports findings.
21. An expanded statement of purpose for a study includes three additional factors. What are they?
a. Scope, significance, and limitations
b. Scope, conclusions, and recommendations
c. Work plan, significance, and limitations
d. Scope, findings, conclusions, and recommendations
ANS: A
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
The scope, significance, and limitations of a report problem are included in an expanded
statement of purpose for a study.
22. Gretchen is writing a report about ways to recruit top business school graduates and is
determining why the topic is worth investigating at this time. Gretchen is looking at the
a. scope.
b. limitations.
c. significance.
d. purpose.
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ANS: C
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
Gretchen is looking at the significance of her report, which asks the question Why is this topic
worth investigating at this time?
23. In planning his report, Wesley breaks the major investigative problem into subproblems. This
process is sometimes called
a. visualizing the problem.
b. focusing the problem.
c. factoring the problem.
d. expanding the problem.
ANS: C
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
Wesley is factoring the problem, the process that identifies issues to be investigated or possible
solutions to the main problem.
24. Anticipating the audience for a report helps the writer to determine
a. how much background material to include.
b. whether to include jargon.
c. what method of organization to follow.
d. all of the above.
ANS: D
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
Anticipating the audience helps a report writer determine how much background material to
include, how much detail to add, whether to include jargon, what method of organization and
presentation to follow, and what tone to use.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Audience
25. A good work plan for a business research project does not usually include
a. a work schedule.
b. a research strategy.
c. a summary of the conclusions.
d. a statement of the problem.
ANS: C
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
A work plan usually includes a statement of the problem, a statement of the purpose, a tentative
outline, a research strategy, and a work schedule. It does not include a summary of the
conclusions, which would not be known yet.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Audience
26. What type of data result from first-hand experience and observation?
a. Primary data
b. Secondary data
c. Unreliable data
d. All of the above
ANS: A
DIF: 5
REF: p. 322 OBJ: 11-3 TYPE:
TOP: Gathering Information From Secondary Sources
NOT A-D:
Primary data result from firsthand experience and observation.
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Ap
27. Nina is conducting research on using blogs and wikis in the workplace. Her least valuable source
of information for this topic will probably be
a. books.
b. credible Web sites.
c. magazines.
d. newspapers.
ANS: A
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
Books will probably be Ninas least valuable source of information because they become
outdated more quickly than Web sites, magazines, and newspapers.
AAC: Tier 1Technology; Tier 2Communication evolution
28. A collection of information stored electronically so that it can be accessed by computer and
digitally searched is a
a. journal.
b. book.
c. database.
d. card catalog.
ANS: C
DIF: 1
REF: p. 324 OBJ: 11-3 TYPE: Def
NOT A-D:
A database is a collection of information stored electronically so that it is accessible by computer
and is digitally searchable.
29. ABI/INFORM, Factiva, LexisNexis, and EBSCO are
a. card catalogs.
b. online catalogs.
c. Web sites.
d. electronic databases.
ANS: D
DIF: 1
NOT A-D:
ABI/INFORM, Factiva, LexisNexis, and EBSCO are electronic databases that are the most useful
to business writers.
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30. Select the least accurate statement about the Web.
a. The Web is a highly organized collection of information from around the world.
b. The Web offers such items as product and service facts, public relations material, mission
statements, government information, and employment information.
c. The Web is an ever-expanding democratic medium where anyone can be a publisher.
d. The Web contains multimedia content ranging from digital sound files to vivid images and
video files.
ANS: A
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 325-326
OBJ: 11-4
TYPE:
Con
TOP: The World Wide Web
NOT:
a. The Web lacks organization and is constantly changing, which can make finding exactly
what you need frustrating and time-consuming.
b. These are just a few of the many types of information that can be located on the Web.
c. The Web is an ever-expanding democratic medium where anyone can be a publisher and
consume most of its boundless content free of charge.
d. The Web contains multimedia content, including digital sound, image, and video files.
31. Select the most accurate statement about the Web.
a. The Web can be accessed only from desktop and laptop computers.
b. The Web started as an exclusive network linking businesspeople.
c. Virtual communities are common for personal use but have no business applications.
d. The fastest-growing sector of the Web is blogs.
ANS: D
DIF: 3
REF: p. 325-326
OBJ: 11-4
TYPE:
Con
NOT:
a. The Web can be accessed from laptop computers, desktop computers, smartphones, wireless
personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other wireless devices.
b. The Web started as an exclusive network linking scientists, academics, military people, and
other tech heads.
c. Virtual communities encourage teamwork among strangers and can help technical experts
and other specialists to collaborate.
d. The fastest growing sector of the Web is blogs (short for weblogs); the sector is sometimes
called the blogosphere.
32. Google, Yahoo, Dogpile, About, and Ask are examples of
a. search tools.
b. Web browsers.
c. electronic databases.
d. spiders.
ANS: A
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
Google, Yahoo, Dogpile, About, and Ask are examples of search tools.
Con
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33. Which of the following is the best advice for searching the Web?
a. Choose your favorite search tool and use it exclusively so that you can master it.
b. Use just one or two keywords when conducting a search.
c. Use quotations marks to search for phrases.
ANS: C
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Use two or three search tools for a more comprehensive search.
b. Use up to six or eight keywords; more words can narrow the search effectively.
c. Phrases, surrounded by quotation marks, generally limit search results to specific matches.
d. Phrases, surrounded by quotation marks, generally limit search results to specific matches.
34. Select the most accurate statement about the Web.
a. Information posted at most sites has undergone the same editing and scrutiny given to articles
in scholarly publications.
b. Researchers can safely assume that the information contained in sites posted on the Web
by individuals and companies is reputable.
c. Wikis, blogs, and discussion forum entries are short-lived and change constantly.
d. Information on the Web is just as reliable as data from traditional sources.
ANS: C
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 329-330
OBJ: 11-4
TYPE:
Ap
NOT:
a. While many sites on the Internet are reputable, information posted at many sites has not
undergone the same editing and scrutiny of scholarly publication procedures.
b. Researchers should evaluate the currency, authority, content, and accuracy of Web sites
carefully since many sites are unreliable.
c. Although wikis, blogs, and discussion forum entries turn up in many Web searches, they are
short-lived and change constantly.
d. Information on the Web is much less reliable than data from traditional sources.
35. Jamal is evaluating the information he found on a Web site before he includes it in a business
report he is writing. He asks, Who publishes or sponsors this Web site? What is Jamal
evaluating?
a. The currency of the Web site
b. The authority of the Web site
c. The content of the Web site
d. The accuracy of the Web site
ANS: B
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
While many sites on the Internet are reputable, information posted at many sites is not. Jamal is
evaluating the authority of the Web site.
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36. You should begin nearly every business report assignment by
a. generating primary data.
b. asking your colleagues for help.
c. evaluating the available secondary data.
d. selecting the type of paper on which youll print it.
ANS: C
DIF: 5
TOP: Gathering Information From Primary Sources
NOT A-D:
You should begin nearly every business report assignment by evaluating the available secondary
data.
37. Sources of primary information include
a. electronic databases.
b. periodicals and newspapers.
c. surveys and interviews.
d. information on the Web.
ANS: C
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Electronic databases provide secondary information.
b. Periodicals and newspapers provide secondary information.
c. Sources of primary information include surveys and interviews.
d. Information found on the Web is secondary data.
Con
38. Which of the following is not a useful guideline for preparing effective surveys?
a. Use questions that produce qualitative answers.
b. Limit the number of questions.
c. Avoid leading or ambiguous questions.
d. Conduct a pilot study.
ANS: A
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 331-333
OBJ: 11-5
TYPE:
Con
NOT:
a. Use questions that produce quantifiable answers so that they will be easy to tabulate.
b. Limit the number of questions.
c. Avoid leading or ambiguous questions that might influence a respondents answer.
d. Conduct a pilot study to test the questions.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Audience, Purpose, Rhetorical considerations
39. The best question to include in a survey is
a. How do you feel about a flat-rate income tax?
b. Do you approve of a flat-rate income tax?
c. What benefits do you feel a flat-rate income tax will offer?
d. Why are you in favor of a flat-rate income tax?
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ANS: B
DIF: 5
NOT:
a. Avoid open-ended questions in a survey because answers to them will be difficult to tabulate.
b. Use questions that produce quantifiable answers in a survey.
c. Avoid open-ended questions in a survey because answers to them will be difficult to tabulate.
d. Avoid open-ended questions in a survey because answers to them will be difficult to tabulate.
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Analysis, Consequences, Conclusion
40. Which of the following is an effective question to use in a survey?
a. Dont you agree that hotel workers are extremely deserving of a 7 percent pay increase
because of all the hard work they do?
b. Do hotel workers deserve a 7 percent pay increase?
c. Should hotel workers accept a 4 percent pay increase, or should they go on strike?
d. Do hotel workers, one of the hardest working and least respected segments of American
society, deserve a 7 percent pay increase?
ANS: B
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 331-333
OBJ: 1-5
TYPE:
Ap
NOT:
a. This question is ineffective because it is leading.
b This question is effective because it is neutral.
c. This question is ineffective because it asks two different things.
d. This question is ineffective because it is leading.
41. Estelita, a student who is researching forensic accounting, is preparing to interview an
experienced accountant. To conduct an effective interview, Estelita should
a. learn as much as possible about the forensic accounting field before conducting the
interview.
b. try to do most of the talking during the interview to put the interviewee at ease.
c. ask as many yes-or-no questions as possible to make things easier for the interviewee.
d. engage the accountant in a debate to display her knowledge.
ANS: A
DIF: 5
NOT:
a. To prepare for the interview, Estelita should research the background and terminology of the
topic.
b. Estelita should let the interviewee do most of the talking during the interview.
c. Estelita should ask open-ended questions, not yes-or-no questions, to get the most
information possible.
d. Estelita should avoid debating the interviewee.
42. Which of the following situations would most likely require observation or scientific
experimentation?
a. You want to find out what tools are available to protect your customers from identity theft.
b. You need to determine the average time it takes your customer service representatives to
process a customer return.
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c. You must find out which ten companies had the largest stock price increases in 2008.
d. You want to verify your supervisors opinion on offering stock options.
ANS: B
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
The only situation that would require observation or scientific research is determining the
average time it takes your customer service representatives to process a customer return.
AAC: Tier 1Analytic; Tier 2Truthfulness, Estimating
43. Nicole will carefully document her sources in a report she is submitting to her boss. Which of the
following is a reason that Nicole should do this?
a. To strengthen her argument
b. To instruct her reader
c. To protect herself against charges of plagiarism
d. All of the above are reasons for documenting report data
ANS: D
DIF: 5
TOP: Documenting Data
NOT A-D:
All of these (to strengthen her argument, to instruct her reader, and to protect herself against
charges of plagiarism) are reasons Nicole should carefully document her sources.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Purpose
AAC: Tier 1Ethics; Tier 2Plagiarism, Personal, corporate, legal, ethical responsibilities
44. Which of the following statements would need to be documented in a report?
a. The Web is a popular research tool.
b. People use the Web for a wide variety of purposes.
c. One third of all teenagers who use the Internet say they have been targets of cyberbullying.
ANS: C
DIF: 5
NOT:
a. This statement is common knowledge and would not need to be documented.
b. This statement is common knowledge and would not need to be documented.
c. This statement is not common knowledge and would need documentation.
d. The statement about cyberbullying use is not common knowledge and would need
documentation.
45. Paraphrasing
a. involves accurately presenting ideas from another source in your own words and sentence
structure.
b. involves presenting ideas from another source using the exact wording of the original source.
c. involves presenting ideas from another source without documentation.
d. requires the report writer to use the same grammatical structure of the original author when
presenting anothers ideas.
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ANS: A
DIF: 3
NOT:
a. Paraphrasing involves accurately presenting ideas from another source in your own words
and sentence structure.
b. Report writers may use the exact wording of another author, but they must enclose the words
in quotation marks and include documentation.
c. Paraphrases and direct quotations both require proper documentation.
d. Paraphrases should reflect the report writers own wording and grammatical structure.
46. Knowledgeable report writers use direct quotations to
a. repeat identical phrasing of a source because of its precision and clarity.
b. provide objective background data and establish the severity of a problem.
c. duplicate the exact wording of a source before criticizing.
d. all of the above.
ANS: D
DIF: 3
NOT A-D:
Report writers should use direct quotations for each of these purposes.
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Consequences, Conclusion
47. Kristin has a large amount of quantitative data made up of exact figures that she needs to present
in a report. Kristin should present this data using a(n)
a. pie chart.
b. line chart.
c. table.
d. organization chart.
ANS: C
DIF: 5
REF: p. 337-338
OBJ: 11-7
TYPE:
Ap
TOP: Illustrating Data
NOT A-D:
A table presents quantitative data in systematic columns and rows and is, therefore, most
appropriate for Kristin to use to present exact figures in her report.
AAC: Tier 1Analytic; Tier 2Numbers in visual display
AAC: Tier 1Technology; Tier 2Data conversion
48. The best choice for showing changes in a companys yearly sales for the last five years is a(n)
a. pie chart.
b. line chart.
c. flow chart.
d. organization chart.
ANS: B
DIF: 5
NOT:
REF:
p. 340 OBJ:
11-7
TYPE:
Ap
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a. Pie charts are useful for displaying a whole unit and the proportion of its components.
b. A line chart is the best choice for showing changes over time.
c. Flow charts effectively display processes or procedures.
d. Organization charts define a hierarchy of elements.
49. Terrance needs to select one visual tool that will compare related items, illustrate changes in data
over time, and show segments as part of the whole. His best choice is a(n)
a. pie chart.
b. line chart.
c. illustration.
d. bar chart.
ANS: D
DIF: 5
NOT A-D:
Bar charts are useful to compare related items, illustrate changes in data over time, and show
segments as a part of the whole.
50. When you incorporate a graphic in the body of your report, you should
a. use a good deal of color to improve readability.
b. manipulate the visual to make data look more dramatic.
c. be sure to include a reference to the graphic in the text.
d. assume that the reader will draw the same conclusions you did from the set of data.
ANS: C
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 342-343
OBJ: 11-7
TYPE:
Con
NOT:
a. Dont overuse color or decorations.
b. It is unethical to manipulate data in a visual.
c. Be sure to refer to each graphic in the text.
d. Because you cant assume that the reader will draw the same conclusions you did, its
wise to explain each graphic.
TRUE/FALSE
1.
Based on their function, business reports usually fall into one of two categories: informational or
analytical.
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ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Most business reports can be placed in one of two broad categories: informational or
analytical.
2.
The common purpose of all business reports is to answer questions and solve
problems.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Although reports vary greatly in length, content, form, and formality level, they all have
a common purpose: to answer questions and solve problems.
3.
Clay has been asked by his boss to research and recommend a firewall for the company network.
Clay should write an analytical report.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
NOT: Because he will need to present data, analyses, and conclusions and recommendations,
Clay should write an analytical report.
4.
Tamara attended a professional conference and must submit a report to her supervisor. She should
write an analytical report.
ANS: F
DIF: 5
NOT: Because she will need to present data without analysis or recommendations, Tamara
should write an informational report.
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Analysis Conclusion
5.
Reports organized in a indirect pattern are usually preferred by readers because this
organizational pattern follows the way in which we solve problems.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Most readers prefer the indirect pattern because it presents the details and then the main
idea, an organizational pattern that is usually used to solve problems.
6.
If readers are familiar with or supportive of the topic, the report should be organized indirectly.
ANS: F
DIF: 3
NOT: Reports should be organized directly when readers are supportive of or
familiar with the topic.
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7.
Ben started his report with a description of the problem. He followed this with his facts and
findings. Finally, he ended his report with his conclusions and recommendations. Ben has used
the indirect pattern to write his report.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
REF: p. 314-315
OBJ: 11-1
NOT: Ben has used the indirect pattern in his report.
8.
TYPE:
Ap
Formal research reports prepared for those outside an organization usually tend to project an
impression of objectivity, authority, and impartiality.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Formal reports, such as a proposal, sent outside an organization must project an
impression of objectivity, authority, and impartiality.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Purpose, Audience, Rhetorical considerations
9.
Luz should use a manuscript format for a long, formal report being sent to one of her companys
clients.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
NOT: Long, formal reports sent outside the organization should use a manuscript format.
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Analysis, Receiver reactions, Conclusion
10. Printed forms are useful for presenting repetitive data, such as monthly sales reports,
performance reviews, and merchandise inventories.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Prepared printed forms are often used for repetitive data, such as monthly sales reports,
performance appraisals, merchandise inventories, and personnel and financial reports.
11. The first step in the report-writing process is analyzing the problem and purpose.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: The first step in writing a report is understanding the problem or assignment clearly.
12. An example of a simple statement of purpose for a business report might be To select the best
location for Sun Coast Banks new branch office.
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ANS: T
DIF: 5
NOT: This simple statement of purpose helps define the focus of the report.
13. An expanded statement of purpose includes three additional factors: the scope, significance, and
limitations of the report.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Scope, significance, and limitations are all included in an expanded statement of purpose.
14. Business report writers should anticipate both primary and secondary audiences.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Report writers must consider their secondary as well as primary audience.
15. A work plan gives a complete description of a research project, including how the investigator
plans to generate or collect data.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: A work plan describes the entire research project and includes how the investigator plans
to generate or collect data.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Purpose, Audience, Rhetorical considerations
16. Nearly every research project should begin with a search of secondary data.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Locating secondary sources on your topic can save you time and prevent you from
duplicating research that has already been done.
17. You are reading an article in The Wall Street Journal that discusses the research findings of a
Centers for Disease Control study on workplace hazards. This newspaper article is an example of
secondary data.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
NOT: A newspaper article is an example of secondary data.
Ap
18. The ability to access information electronically has made using books for business research
obsolete.
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ANS: F
DIF: 3
NOT: Books are quickly outdated but are useful for historical information on a topic.
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19. Corporations rarely used blogs because of their informality and social reputation.
ANS: F
DIF: 3
NOT: Corporate blogs are growing in popularity as companies begin to understand their
marketing potential.
20. The two types of search tools are subject directories and search engines.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Subject directories and search engines are the two categories of search tools.
21. In some search tools you can use Boolean operators, such as AND, OR, and NEAR, to narrow
your search.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Boolean operators, such as AND, OR, and NEAR, can be used in some search
tools to limit your search.
22. Business researchers can safely assume that the great majority of Internet sources are reliable.
ANS: F
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 329-330
OBJ: 11-4
TYPE:
Con
NOT: Because the Web is rampant with unreliable sites, business researchers should carefully
scrutinize the information that they locate on the Internet.
23. When evaluating a Web site, if you find numerous errors, you should be alert that the data may be
questionable.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Errors in spelling, grammar, or usage can be clues that the data on a Web site is
unreliable.
24. Primary data can be generated from surveys, interviews, observation, and experimentation.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Providing answers to business problems often means generating primary data through
surveys, interviews, observation, or experimentation.
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25. The best survey questions are open-ended because they provide qualitative data.
ANS: F
DIF: 3
NOT: Answers to open-ended questions provide data that is difficult to quantify.
26. Are you in favor of requiring seatbelts to save lives? is an example of a leading question.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 331-333
OBJ: 11-5
TYPE:
Con
NOT: This is an example of a leading question and should be avoided in surveys because they
can influence respondents answers. For example, this question may influence respondents to say
they are in favor of requiring seatbelts since most people favor saving lives.
27. When little has been written on a research topic, some of the best information comes from
interviews with experts in the field.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Interviews with experts in the field will produce valuable information, particularly for
topics on which little has been written.
28. Open-ended questions produce the best results in an interview with an expert.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Use open-ended, rather than yes-or-no, questions to draw experts out.
29. Formal experimentation produces data suggesting causes and effects.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Experimentation is useful for producing data that suggests causes and effects.
AAC: Tier 1Analytic; Tier 2Truthfulness, Estimating
30. Documenting data presented in a research report strengthens your argument.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Including good data from reputable sources will convince readers of your credibility and
the logic of your reasoning.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Purpose, Audience
31. An individual who is caught plagiarizing or using words or ideas without giving proper credit
faces the possibility of losing his or her job.
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ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: An individual could face the possibility of losing his or her job if caught plagiarizing.
32. Documenting data is necessary in academic reports but not in business reports.
ANS: F
DIF: 3
NOT: It is wise to document data in both academic and business reports.
33. Brodie is writing a report and has found an excellent source of information on the Web. The best
way for Brodie to include this information is to cut-and-paste the information directly into his
report without referring to the original authors name.
ANS: F
DIF: 5
NOT: If Brodie copies the material directly into his report without documenting it, he is guilty
of plagiarism. He should carefully paraphrase and document the information that he includes in
his report.
34. As long as you put the research you find into your own words, you dont have to cite your
source.
ANS: F
DIF: 3
NOT: Even when you paraphrase your findings, you must still provide a reference to the source
author.
35. Graphics can be used in a business report to clarify data, make numeric data meaningful, and
create visual interest.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Graphics help clarify data, create visual interest, and make numeric
data meaningful.
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36. Stacey wants to illustrate how her companys sales have increased over the past five years. She
should use a pie chart to do this.
ANS: F
DIF: 5
NOT: Stacey should use a line chart, which is useful for showing changes in quantitative data
over time.
37. Travis wants to come up with a graphic that will clearly show new staff members how a
customers order proceeds from sales to delivery. The best graphic for him to use is a flow chart.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
NOT: Procedures are simplified and clarified by diagramming them in a flow chart.
38. Gabrielle is preparing a visual that will show what percentage each expense is of her companys
total expenses. An organization chart will best illustrate this data.
ANS: F
DIF: 5
NOT: Gabrielle should use a pie chart, which will enable her readers to see a whole and the
proportion of its components.
39. Table 4 shows that three fourths of the respondents oppose the proposed tax is a complete and
effective reference to a visual aid in a report.
ANS: T
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 341-342 OBJ: 11-7
NOT: This reference tells the reader what to look for.
TYPE:
Ap
40. Some business reports include photographs, maps, and illustrations to add authenticity and to
prepare a visual record.
ANS: T
DIF: 3
NOT: Photographs, maps, and illustration can add authenticity and a visual record to a report.

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Presentations
COMPLETION
1. Reports that present data without analysis or recommendations are classified as _____________
reports.
ANS: informational
DIF: 3
NOT: Reports that involve routine operations, compliance with regulations,
and company policies and procedures are classified as informational reports.
2. Reports that provide data, analyses, conclusions, and recommendations are classified as
_____________ reports.
ANS: analytical
DIF: 3
NOT: Reports that provide data, analyses, conclusions, and recommendations are classified as
analytical reports.
3. Your boss wants to know the results of your research findings immediately. You should organize
your report using the ____________ pattern.
ANS: direct
DIF: 5
NOT: Your boss wants to know the results of your research findings immediately. You should
organize your report using the direct pattern.
4. Yahaira has a great idea for a new fund-raiser for the nonprofit organization for which she works,
but she is afraid her boss will be resistant to her idea. Yahairas report should be written using the
__________ pattern.
ANS: indirect
DIF: 5
REF: p. 314-315
OBJ: 11-1 TYPE: Ap
NOT: Because Yahairas report may meet with resistance, it should be written using the indirect
pattern.
5. Theses, research studies, and complex reports are usually written using a ___________ writing
style.
ANS:
DIF:
TOP:
formal
3
REF: p. 316 OBJ:
Understanding Report Basics
11-1
TYPE: Con
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NOT: A formal report writing style is generally used for theses, research studies, and complex
reports.
6. For short, informal reports that stay within organizations, the ____________ format with its TO,
FROM, DATE, and SUBJECT lines is appropriate.
ANS: memo
DIF: 3
NOT: For short, informal reports that stay within organizations, the memo format with its TO,
FROM, DATE, and SUBJECT lines is appropriate.
7. Lamont is writing a short six-page report to a client. He should use the _________ format and
print his report on company letterhead.
ANS: letter
DIF: 5
NOT: Lamont is writing a short six-page report to a client. He should use the letter format and
print his report on company letterhead.
8. To determine the best location for a new retail store is an example of a simple statement of
____________.
ANS: purpose
DIF: 5
NOT: To determine the best location for a new retail store is an example of a simple
statement of purpose.
9. An expanded statement of ____________ includes the scope, significance, and limitations of the
study.
ANS: purpose
DIF: 3
NOT: An expanded statement of purpose includes the scope, significance, and limitations of the
study.
10. The ____________ of the study tells what issues or elements will be investigated.
ANS:
DIF:
scope
1
REF:
p. 318 OBJ:
11-2
TYPE: Def
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NOT: The scope of the study tells what issues or elements will be investigated.
11. The ______________ of a study tells why the topic is worth investigating at this time.
ANS: significance
DIF: 1
NOT: The significance of a study tells why the topic is worth investigating at this time.
12. Krista is developing her ___________ plan, which will include a statement of the problem, a
statement of purpose, a tentative outline of her report, her research strategy, and the work
schedule.
ANS: work
DIF: 5
NOT: Krista is developing her work plan, which will include a statement of the problem, a
statement of purpose, a tentative outline of her report, her research strategy, and the work
schedule.
13. Most research projects should begin with ____________ data collection to locate information
that someone else has gathered.
ANS: secondary
DIF: 3
REF: pp. 322-323
OBJ: 11-3 TYPE: Con
NOT: Most research projects should begin with secondary data collection to locate information
that someone else has gathered.
14. Yahoo!, Google, and Ask are examples of ____________ engines or tools that are used to locate
information on the Web.
ANS: search
DIF: 5
NOT: Yahoo!, Google, and Ask are popular search engines or tools used to locate information
on the Web.
15. To solve a companys specific current problems for which little secondary data exist, business
researchers usually rely heavily on ____________ data such as surveys, interviews, and
observation.
84
ANS: primary
DIF: 3
NOT: To solve a companys specific current problems for which little secondary data exist,
business researchers usually rely heavily on primary data such as surveys, interviews, and
observation.
16. ____________ the words or ideas of another person in a report strengthens your argument,
protects you, and instructs the reader.
ANS: Documenting
DIF: 3
NOT: Documenting the words or ideas of another person in a report strengthens your argument,
protects you, and instructs the reader.
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Audience, Rhetorical considerations
17. Using the words or ideas of another person without properly acknowledging the source is called
____________.
ANS: plagiarism
DIF: 1
NOT: Using the words or ideas of another person without properly acknowledging the source is
called plagiarism.
18. Effective report writers ____________ an original passage by restating it in their own words and
in their own style.
ANS: paraphrase
DIF: 3
NOT: Effective report writers paraphrase an original passage by restating it in their own words
and in their own style.
19. ____________ use systematic columns and rows to clarify large quantities of data visually in a
report or for an oral presentation.
ANS:
DIF:
TOP:
NOT:
Tables
3
Illustrating Data
Tables use systematic columns and rows to clarify large quantities of data visually in a
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report or for an oral presentation.

20. ____________ charts show the chain of command, from the boss down to the line managers and
employees.
ANS: Organization
DIF: 3
REF: p. 341OBJ: 11-7 TYPE: Con
NOT: Organization charts show the chain of command, from the boss down to the line
managers and employees.
ESSAY
1. Most business reports fit into two broad categories. List and describe these two categories; then
present one original example of each.
ANS:
Student answers will vary but should include the following two categories:
a. Informational reports: Reports that present data without analysis or recommendations are
informational.
Example: A report describing a new company e-mail policy.
b. Analytical reports: Reports that provide data, analyses, and conclusions are analytical. If
requested, writers also supply recommendations. Analytical reports may intend to persuade
readers to act or change their beliefs.
Example: A report written to ones supervisor recommending that the department implement
a flexible work schedule.
DIF: 5
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Analysis, Conclusion, Theory application
2. You have been assigned a project to study the possibility of outsourcing your
companys payroll function. Following your research, your report will
recommend whether payroll processing should remain in-house or be
handled by an outside payroll firm. Analyze the problem and purpose of this
task; then prepare an expanded statement of purpose that includes scope,
significance, and limitations.
ANS:
Student answers will vary.
Expanded Statement of Purpose: The purpose of this report is to recommend how the company
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payroll will be handled in the future. The report will consider two options: keeping payroll
processing in-house and outsourcing the payroll function to an outside payroll company. It will
also measure employee reactions to each option. The report is significant because the companys
payroll has become complex and expensive to process in-house, and outsourcing may result in
cost savings and reduced paperwork. The study is limited to the payroll part of accounting only.
All other accounting functions will remain in-house.
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 317-319
OBJ: 11-2 TYPE: Ap
AAC: Tier 1Reflective Thinking; Tier 2Analysis, Conclusion, Theory application
3. Business researchers use both primary and secondary data when preparing business reports.
Compare these two types of data, describing each source, and explaining when each would be
used. Then give three examples of each type of data.
ANS:
Secondary Data: Secondary data come from reading what others have experienced and observed.
Secondary data are easier and cheaper to develop than primary data; therefore, nearly every
research project should begin with collecting secondary data.
Examples: books, periodicals (print and Web-based), electronic databases, World Wide Web
Primary Data: Primary data result from firsthand experience and observation. Business reports
that solve specific current problems typically rely on primary, firsthand data.
Examples: surveys, interviews, observations, experiments
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 322-334
OBJ: 12-3 TYPE: Ap
TOP: Gathering Information From Secondary Sources/The World Wide Web/Gathering
Information Through Primary Sources
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Rhetorical considerations
4. A business report writer should always carefully document report data for three reasons. List and
explain these reasons. Then describe four types of information that must be documented.
ANS:
Three reasons for documenting data:

1) To strengthen your argument: Including good data from reputable sources will convince
readers of your credibility and the logic of your reasoning.
2) To protect yourself against charges of plagiarism: Acknowledging your sources keeps you
honest. Plagiarism, which is illegal and unethical, is the act of using others ideas without
proper documentation.
3) To instruct the reader: Citing references enables readers to pursue a topic further and make use
of the information themselves.
Types of information to document:
1) Another persons ideas, opinions, examples, or theories
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2) Any facts, statistics, graphs, and drawings that are not common knowledge
3) Quotations of anothers actual spoken or written words
4) Paraphrases of another persons spoken or written words
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 334-335
OBJ: 11-6 TYPE: Ap
AAC: Tier 1Communication; Tier 2Patterns, Rhetorical considerations
5. Several types of graphics can be added to business reports to clarify data, create visual interest,
and make numerical data meaningful. List five categories of graphics and explain the type of data
each is used to illustrate. Then give an original example of when each could be used.
ANS:
Student answers will vary but should include five of the following graphics.
a. Table: used to show exact figures and values.

Example: To show a supermarkets sales by department for a for several years.
b. Bar chart: used to compare related items, illustrate changes in data
over time, and show

segments as a part of the whole.
Example: To show a supermarkets sales by department, side by side, for several years.
c. Line chart: used to demonstrate changes in quantitative data over time.
Example: To show enrollment at a state university over the past five years.
d. Pie chart: used to visualize a whole unit and the proportions of its components.
Example: To show the percentage of each expense as part of a companys total expenses.
e. Flow chart: used to display a process or procedure.
Example: To show the procedure employees must follow to file a workers comp claim.
f. Organization chart: used to define a hierarchy of elements.
Example: To show where all positions fall within the chain of command.
f. Photograph, map, illustration: used to authenticate an incident, to spotlight a location, and to
show an item in use.
Example: To show the locations of five new branches that will be built over the next year.
DIF: 5
REF: pp. 337-342
OBJ: 11-7 TYPE: Ap

Chapter 11-Business Report Basics: Multiple Choice

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UNIT 4 Reports, Proposals, and