A useful report answers a specific question. Start there, then choose the data, visual structure, and output that support the answer.
Name the reader and the task.
Write down who reads the report and what they need to decide. A monthly overview and an exception list should not share the same information hierarchy.
Shape the dataset deliberately.
Choose meaningful fields and filter parameters. Confirm aggregation, null handling, grouping, and the difference between a detail row and a summarized measure.
Make the layout readable.
Use a clear title, a restrained set of visual styles, and consistent table labels. Keep charts close to their supporting detail. Label units, date ranges, and any synthetic examples.
Review the output you will actually deliver.
A browser preview is part of the workflow, but verify the target PDF, Word, or Excel output too. Confirm page breaks, repeated headers, photos, fonts, and permission boundaries.