What is the Difference Between Report and Proposal?

The main difference between a report and a proposal lies in their purpose and structure. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

Report:

• Analyzes a situation or an issue.
• Identifies a specific problem, explains it, and recommends action that will lead to a solution.
• Short, concise, and precise document with a specific purpose.
• Contains sections such as cover sheet, table of contents, report summary, introduction, main body, conclusion, appendix, and reference page.
• Formal and concise language is used.

Proposal:

• Identifies a particular need, explains it, and recommends how this need can best be met.
• Presents a plan or idea for consideration by others.
• Contains sections such as cover page, title page, obverse matter, body, conclusion, reference page, and appendix.
• More persuasive language is used to persuade the reader.

In summary, a report analyzes a situation or issue and provides recommendations for improvement, while a proposal presents a plan or idea for consideration by others to address a specific need. Reports typically focus on objectively analyzing and offering solutions, while proposals aim to persuade the reader to take a particular course of action.

Comparative Table: Report vs Proposal

Here is a table comparing the differences between a report and a proposal:

Reports aim to analyze situations and suggest improvements, while proposals are intended to present plans or ideas for others to consider. The structure and language used in each document are also different, with reports being more formal and concise, and proposals using persuasive language.