Download a report template:
Basic report template (DOC 51KB)
A basic evaluation report usually contains:
Cover page and title
Your title should describe your project. Add authors, dates and logos, and include a table of contents.
Executive summary
Some people will only read the executive summary — make sure it contains an overview of everything you want them to know. In less than two pages (if possible), summarise:
- your main findings
- lessons learned
- key recommendations.
Introduction
Briefly describe:
- project background and overview, including the timeframe, main stakeholders, and project goals
- why your activity is needed (you can cover this in detail in your evidence review)
- activity format.
About the evaluation
Describe your evaluation aims and objectives, including:
- key evaluation questions
- stakeholders
- evaluation team.
Outline your methods, including limitations.
Evidence review
Show the evidence you've collected that:
- shows why your activity is needed
- has informed your activity design and approach
- says your approach will reduce the incidence of sexual violence.
Findings
Use your key evaluation questions as sub-headings. For each question:
- illustrate what you found out
- use tables, charts and other graphics where appropriate
- add quotes where you have them.
Discussion
Interpret the findings — what changed? What didn't? What was expected? Unexpected?
Some reports combine the findings and discussion section.
Recommendations
Draw conclusions. Explain:
- what you found out that will inform the way you do things in the future
- any recommendations for others doing this type of work
- any wider recommendations you would like to make.
Don't forget to list your key recommendations in the executive summary.
Conclusion
Write a high-level summary of the success of your activity based on the evaluation findings.