Good report-writing is difficult for most engineers. Good letter-writing among engineers is even more rare. How many engineers do you know who are succinct, to the point, give you only the information you need, and do it in a clear and concise manner? Anyone who can accomplish only two of the above will immediately be promoted to project manager!
Engineers understand life in equations, formulas and algorithms. The following list of thinking points (variables) should be examined (defined) prior to putting something into writing (solving the equation):