Case Studies Case Study Writing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Why is it important to define the scope of a case study at the outset?
- To set boundaries that keep the analysis focused and manageable (Correct answer)
- To limit the number of sources that can be cited
- To restrict the case to a single industry sector
- To avoid including any quantitative data in the study
Correct answer: To set boundaries that keep the analysis focused and manageable
Defining scope at the outset establishes clear boundaries for what will and will not be included, preventing the analysis from becoming unfocused or unmanageable.
Question 2: What is meant by 'citations' in a case study report?
- Formal references that credit the sources of information used (Correct answer)
- Internal notes visible only to the writer
- Headers used to organize major sections
- Definitions of technical terms used in the analysis
Correct answer: Formal references that credit the sources of information used
Citations formally acknowledge the sources of data, ideas, and quotes used in the case study, ensuring academic integrity and allowing readers to verify information.
Question 3: Which writing technique helps a case study reader follow complex analysis?
- Using subheadings, bullet points, and logical paragraph flow (Correct answer)
- Writing long, unbroken paragraphs with minimal punctuation
- Starting each section with a personal anecdote
- Using only passive voice throughout the document
Correct answer: Using subheadings, bullet points, and logical paragraph flow
Subheadings, bullet points, and logical paragraph flow make complex analysis accessible, helping readers navigate and understand the key points quickly.
Question 4: In case study writing, what is the function of 'appendices'?
- To include supporting material that is relevant but too detailed for the main text (Correct answer)
- To repeat the executive summary in more detail
- To list all team members who contributed to the project
- To replace the bibliography with raw data
Correct answer: To include supporting material that is relevant but too detailed for the main text
Appendices contain supporting material — such as raw data, detailed tables, or interview transcripts — that is relevant to the study but too detailed or lengthy for the main body.
Question 5: When writing a case study, why is it essential to consider the target audience?
- To adjust the level of detail, terminology, and tone appropriately (Correct answer)
- To ensure the report is long enough for academic submission
- To determine which sections can be omitted
- To select the font and formatting style
Correct answer: To adjust the level of detail, terminology, and tone appropriately
Knowing the target audience — whether executives, academics, or students — allows the writer to adjust technical depth, vocabulary, and tone so the report effectively communicates its message.
Question 6: What is the difference between a 'descriptive' and an 'analytical' case study response?
- Descriptive retells facts; analytical interprets and evaluates their significance (Correct answer)
- Descriptive is longer; analytical is shorter
- Descriptive uses graphs; analytical uses only text
- Descriptive is forward-looking; analytical reviews only the past
Correct answer: Descriptive retells facts; analytical interprets and evaluates their significance
A descriptive response summarizes what happened, while an analytical response interprets the significance of those facts and evaluates their implications critically.
Case Studies Case Study Writing 2
Why is it important to define the scope of a case study at the outset?