Writing Style

bulletBusiness and marketing reports or papers should be written in the third person. This is the norm and most accepted way of writing these business reports.
bulletIn addition, if one writes in first person, a tendency exists to emphasize what one believes. Emotions can cloud judgment and can take away from the analysis and neutrality of a report.
bulletWhen writing an analytically-oriented business report, one should present the situation, state the facts, and provide recommendations in an unbiased mode. Then, others can make informed decisions based on the information and details presented.
bulletAlways check for correct grammar and spelling.  Most word processors are equipped with grammar and spell check and Thesaurus.

Citation:

bulletRandomly, your paper will be submitted/checked for plagiarism.  Plagiarism is when you copy or use someone else's idea as your own (see Plagiarism) and the guidelines in your Student Handbook.
bulletIt is imperative to cite all sources and then include the complete source in the reference page.
bullet APA style is the preferred method in writing an academic paper.  Most word processors offer APA style writing (check your manual or use the help provided in your software(.
bulletCiting correctly and properly also protects you against plagiarism.  Remember that plagiarism is using someone else's ideas and submitting it as yours.  So, if you used a web site as a source, then it should be cited accordingly.
bulletBelow are a few excellent cites providing additional information in writing APA style:
bullet http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/research/r_apa.html
bullet http://www.lib.utsa.edu/Research/Subject/citingguide.html
bullet http://library.unomaha.edu/research/aids/library_guides/CitingInAPAStyle.pdf
bullet http://www.cbu.edu/library/instruction/handouts/apa.pdf