In journalism, a special report is an in-depth and thorough article that investigates a subject. This type of reporting often involves exposing wrongdoing or corruption and 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 subjects for their audience.
During an event that warrants nationwide coverage, stations will interrupt their regular programming to air a special report. Depending on the severity of the situation, this may last only a few minutes or continue for hours or days. Many networks also use lower third graphics during these reports to convey the urgency of the story being reported.
A research report is a summary of results from systematic investigations that is written in formal language. It should include the aims of the investigation, the problems that were set out to be solved and the implications of these results for the existing body of knowledge in the field of study. It should also include a literature review which is a written survey of existing research works relevant to the systematic investigation.
A special report is a financial report that deviates from the standard format of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. This unique type of report can be used to comply with contractual agreements or regulatory provisions and can contain either financial or nonfinancial information. When preparing a special report, it is important to understand the specific needs of users and report objectives while maintaining professional standards.