A special report is a customized financial report that deviates from the standard formats set forth by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. This unique type of reporting is often required to satisfy contractual agreements or regulatory provisions. The preparation of these reports requires a balance between understanding specific information needs and maintaining professional standards and clarity. Examples of special reporting include compliance reports, cost allocations and outcome measurements that go beyond the scope of a financial statement audit.
In journalism, a special report is an in-depth article that investigates a particular subject and typically requires extensive research to write. These articles are often written about controversial subjects, such as alleged wrongdoing or corruption. They can increase a journalist’s credibility and provide valuable insight into complex issues for their audience.
For example, a television network may use a special report to broadcast breaking news stories. These events can often elicit nationwide coverage and require numerous stations to interrupt regular programming to air the special report. The networks may also employ lower third graphics during the special report to communicate the urgency of the story to viewers.
In science, a special report summarizes the results of a scientific study and its impact on current knowledge. This type of publication is meant to share first-hand verifiable information with a scholarly audience and highlights gaps that future systematic investigations can fill. During the preparation of special reports, authors should ensure that their work includes an introduction section that describes why this research is significant and a literature review section that analyzes existing knowledge in the field of study.