How to Write a Trend Analysis Summary

Trend analysis reports examine data in an effort to determine if certain actions or reactions occur in a patterned trend. Trend analysis reports aid workers and researchers in a multitude of fields as they attempt to make predictions about their subject matter. The summary component of a trend analysis report offers general statements about all of the components of the report as a type of overview. Writing a trend analysis summary requires you to briefly describe each component of the report and provide a summative statement regarding the findings of the report.

Step 1

Describe the collected data analyzed within the report. Though the specifics of the data would be analyzed in the "Data" or "Analysis" section, a general statement about both the type of data gathered and the manner in which the data was gathered is important in your summary. For example, "The salary and housing report focuses on 1,182 survey responses from socioeconomically diverse households."

Step 2

Detail the criteria you used to evaluate the data. If you borrowed criteria or evaluative methods from other researchers, cite their contributions to your report. For example, "In accordance with Smith and Goldblatt's 1999 Study of Inmate Behavior, this report utilizes an adaptive behavior scale in its analysis of inmate testimony."

Step 3

List any and all results that seem to indicate trends. For example, "Upon evaluating the data, this report reveals that there is a correlative trend between an individual's educational background and the likelihood that they shop at Food Co."

Step 4

Explain any recommendations your trend analysis report will make in the conclusion section of the report. For example, "Upon identifying the trend connecting violent behavior with violent video games, this report will suggest a stricter video game ratings system for all future video game releases."