what is a log book report

Log Book Samples & Templates

When there is a requirement for them, log books can be made at any point throughout the year. If the log is one that students will use for attendance tracker , then they need to be instructed on how to use it as well as when it should be used. One log book with tabs for items that kids record (tardies, bathroom trips, and make-up work) and another log book with tabs just for the use of the regular or substitute teacher is something that many educators keep on hand. In addition, having a solid attendance history comes with a number of advantages, as indicated by scientific research and polls conducted by a variety of academic organizations and commercial organizations. First, it demonstrates how seriously you take your work accomplishment or education, both of which will, in the long run, help you establish a platform upon which to construct your future.

15+ Log Book Samples

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• Capture specific occurrences or incidents in chronological order.
• Provide a detailed timeline of activities, changes, or issues.
• Record transactions or changes to a system or database.
• Essential for maintaining data integrity and recovery in case of errors or failures.
• Purpose: Track security-related events such as login attempts, access control changes, and potential security breaches.
• Importance: Essential for monitoring and investigating security incidents, ensuring compliance with security policies, and identifying unauthorized access.

4. Audit Logs:

• Purpose: Maintain a record of operations or transactions performed by users or systems.
• Importance: Crucial for compliance auditing, tracking accountability, and verifying that activities conform to organizational policies and procedures.

5. Error Logs:

• Purpose: Capture errors, warnings, and exceptions that occur within an application or system.
• Importance: Key for diagnosing problems, debugging applications, and improving system reliability and performance.

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Log books are widely utilized across various industries and professions to systematically record and track essential information. Professionals such as pilots, sailors, and truck drivers use log books to document journey details, ensuring compliance with regulations and safety standards. In scientific research , lab technicians maintain log books to record experiments, methodologies, and results. Engineers and maintenance personnel rely on log books to track equipment performance and maintenance schedules. Additionally, project managers use log books to document project milestones, tasks, and communications, fostering transparency and accountability. In essence, log books serve as indispensable tools for systematic recording and organization of critical data in diverse fields.

To create a logbook in Excel , start by opening a new spreadsheet. Designate columns for relevant information, such as date, time, event description, and any other pertinent details. Use individual rows for each log entry. Utilize Excel’s formatting options to enhance readability and organization. Consider incorporating filters for easy data analysis. Include headers for each column, and if needed, create additional sheets for different categories or periods. Regularly update and save the logbook to maintain accurate records. This structured approach ensures a systematic and accessible logbook within Excel for efficient tracking and documentation of events or data.

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To create an online logbook, start by selecting a platform or tool that suits your needs, such as Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel Online, or dedicated logbook apps. Create a structured template with categories relevant to your purpose, like dates, activities, and sample notes . Ensure accessibility and collaboration features for team use. Leverage cloud storage for easy sharing and real-time updates. Customize permissions to control access. Regularly update entries and consider automation for repetitive tasks. Incorporate security measures for data protection. Finally, regularly review and refine the logbook format based on evolving requirements, ensuring a user-friendly and efficient online documentation system.

A logbook serves various purposes depending on the context in which it is used. Here are the primary purposes of a logbook:

1. Record Keeping:

• Purpose: Maintain a detailed and organized record of activities, events, or transactions.
• Importance: Ensures that all necessary information is documented for future reference, audits, or reviews.

2. Accountability:

• Purpose: Track who performed specific actions or made certain decisions.
• Importance: Helps in assigning responsibility and accountability for actions, decisions, or changes.

3. Compliance:

• Purpose: Ensure adherence to regulatory, legal, or organizational requirements.
• Importance: Provides evidence that procedures and standards are being followed, which is essential for compliance audits.

4. Incident Tracking:

• Purpose: Document and analyze incidents or issues that occur.
• Importance: Aids in investigating problems, understanding their causes, and preventing future occurrences.

5. Data Analysis:

• Purpose: Collect data for analysis and reporting.
• Importance: Enables the identification of trends, patterns, and insights that can inform decision-making and improvements.

6. Communication:

• Purpose: Facilitate communication and information sharing among team members or stakeholders.
• Importance: Ensures that everyone involved is informed and up-to-date with the latest information and developments.

7. Historical Reference:

• Purpose: Maintain a historical record of activities, events, or changes.
• Importance: Provides a valuable resource for historical analysis, learning, and future planning.

8. Operational Continuity:

• Purpose: Support continuity of operations by maintaining detailed records of procedures and activities.
• Importance: Ensures that operations can continue smoothly in the absence of key personnel or in the event of disruptions.

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A log book is used to monitor attendance or the act of being present at every event or location on a daily scheduled basis. A logbook is a form of security management tool that enables one to keep track of the attendance of any individual, be it a college student, an employee of a company business , or a  agency worker . The logbook is another highly effective tool in event management since it gives event planners and organizers a way to determine the number of visitors who will be attending the event, which enables them to prepare for their arrival in advance.

To create a draft of your logbook, you will need to get your pen and paper or your mobile device. In addition, you will require a name list, which you will then input into the tracker. The following is a list of some of the advice and tips you can follow if you generate one.

Utilizing software that includes a spreadsheet or tables is the most excellent way to ensure that your logbook is as efficient as possible. Writing your log using a pen and paper might be acceptable, but writing it by hand when it’s going to be used professionally is a big no. Find a program you are familiar with using and install it on your computer so you can finish the work of making a sheet or table immediately.

When you are in the process of constructing your log, it is preferable if you know the goal of your logbook, such as knowing where it should be utilized. This will allow you to design your log more effectively. If you did this, you would have an easier and faster time creating the appropriate log book with the correct format and design.

The time and date when the log book should be used can vary greatly from one company’s business to another’s event to an academic institution’s requirements. Because of this, it is advisable to mention the time and date on the log so that you will know when it is going to be utilized and so that it does not get mixed up with any of your other trackers.

You can get an indication of what the individual was doing at the time the attendance is recorded by looking at the key codes, which refer to the metrics or criteria in the log book and include phrases like “Present,” “Absent,” and “Reported Ill.” Key codes are also beneficial if you want to file a report for the absence of an employee or a student so that you may receive a reason why they were unable to show up for work or school.

The timeliness and attendance of an organization’s workers are essential factor that contributes to that organization’s overall success.

A logbook , on the other hand, is a book in which information is entered for review and tracking. It is almost always required to be in hardcover. In the workplace, logbooks are used to keep track of a variety of items, including events, actions, and measurements, amongst other things.

The evidence of your activities and actions taken in real-time is recorded in a log book so that it can be reviewed later.

A logbook is used to record and document specific information, events, or activities over time. It serves as a chronological record, providing a structured way to track and organize data relevant to a particular purpose, such as scientific observations, work hours, or vehicle maintenance .

The official logbook is a formal record or document that contains authorized and authenticated entries, often used for legal or regulatory purposes. It is maintained in accordance with specific guidelines and standards, providing an accurate and official account of events, transactions, or activities.

A daily logbook is a chronological record documenting daily activities, events, or observations. Typically used for various purposes such as tracking progress, maintaining records, or recording significant details in a structured manner.

A project logbook is a chronological record that documents key activities, decisions, and milestones throughout a project’s lifecycle, providing a detailed account for analysis, accountability, and future reference.

You can check the productivity of your employees or pupils and, simultaneously, experience monitoring that is free of stress if you invest in a better attendance management system for yourself and your organization. If you find yourself needing a system for keeping log books, you can access our templates for editable logbooks online and download them.

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No ELD and Log Book Violation Tickets

Make the best of a bad situation. Get your questions answered and find out your options with a free consultation.

We Fight Log Book Violations Anywhere In Arizona

No log book.

This is exactly what it sounds like – A driver who is required to maintain a log book but does not could be charged with a no log book violation. See   49 CFR 395.8(a)(1) .

False Report of Driver Duty Status

A false report of driver duty status (false log book) occurs when what is recorded in the ELD or log book does not match what really happened. There are two ways this can happen:

First , a driver could intentionally falsify a log book entry. This is usually done when a driver believes he has violated   the hours of service rules , and the driver does not want the log book to reflect the hours of service vhiolation.

Second , an innocent error could result in a false log book entry. As you might imagine, if the error was innocent, and the driver has documentation to support what should have actually been entered, and the accurate information does not violate any hours of service rules, the chances for a favorable outcome are much better than with an intentional false entry.

A false log book entry is a violation of   49 CFR 395.8(e)(1) .

No Record of Duty Status

This violation would come up if a driver is required to have a log book, but does not, or if the driver actually does have a log book (or an ELD –  electronic logging device), but has not recorded his or her duty status in that log book. In other words, there is a period of time where there is no data available when there should be.

When there is no data, an investigating officer cannot determine whether or not the driver is complying with the hours of service rules.

49 CRF 395.8   requires a driver operating a commercial motor vehicle to record the driver’s duty status.

No Electronic Logging Device

A “no ELD” violation is charged under the same statute as a no log book violation,   49 CFR 395.8(a)(1) . In summary, most drivers who are required to record their duty status under 395.8(a) must also use an electronic logging device. There are a few exceptions:

• Drivers who operate under the short-haul exceptions are not required to use ELDs and may continue using timecards;
• Drivers who use paper logs for not more than 8 days out of every 30-day period.
• Drivers who conduct drive-away-tow-away operations, in which the vehicle being driven is part of the shipment being delivered.
• Drivers of vehicles manufactured before 2000.

Even if a driver has an ELD, he could still be charged with a violation if the ELD is malfunctioning in some way, or if the driver is unable to transmit data from the ELD to the investigating officer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do we fight a false log book, no log book, or no eld ticket.

Usually, whether there was a log book or not, or an ELD or not, or whether the entries were correct or not, is fairly straight-forward. Either there was an ELD/log book, and it was correct, or it wasn’t.

Some possible arguments might include:

• The ELD malfunctioned, or
• The driver has receipts that back up what is stated in the log.

Absent a legal argument, we are left to present our clients in the best possible light and negotiate an improved outcome. A prosecutor may take into consideration things like:

• A clean driving record
• A history of community service
• School or employment history
• Other mitigating details

Some prosecuting attorneys are willing to consider an arrangement wherein our client pleads to a reduced charge (perhaps with no CSA points) or a civil charge, or participates in diversion that results in the charge being dismissed. Generally speaking, prosecutors are not looking to cause a driver to lose their job. There are unfortunately exceptions to this (I’m looking at you Maricopa County).

What are the log book violation penalties?

Log book violations are criminal violations according to A.R.S. 28-5240 , which states:

A. In addition to civil penalties imposed under this chapter, a motor carrier, shipper or manufacturer who operates or causes to be operated a commercial motor vehicle in violation of this chapter or who knowingly violates or knowingly fails to comply with any provision of this chapter or with any rule adopted pursuant to this chapter is guilty of: 1. A class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense. 2. A class 1 misdemeanor for a second offense. 3. A class 6 felony for any subsequent offense.

For the vast majority of cases we see, the driver is facing a first-time log book violation. This means the driver is facing a class 2 misdemeanor, and the following possible consequences:

• Class 2 misdemeanor criminal conviction.
• Fines up to $750 plus surcharges and court assessments that could nearly double the total fine
• Up to 4 months in jail.
• Up to 2 years probation

For the majority of people , if they are found guilty the consequences include:

• Class 2 misdemeanor conviction.
• Fines in the $300-$600 range
• No jail, no probation.

There can also be some  collateral consquences :

• A conviction can impact a driver’s employment
• Immigration issues
• CSA points for the driver’s employer
• Having to disclose a criminal conviction on job applications

How many points is a log book violation?

This is a two-part answer.

Log book violations are charged under the code of federal regulations (CFR), and not the Arizona Revised Statutes. Also, log book violations aren’t technically moving violations. As a result, the Arizona department of Transporation (ADOT), does not assess any points to a driver’s license.

However, there will be CSA points assessed (assuming there was an inspection that occurred at the same time the ticket was issued). Falsifying a log book is 7 points . Failing to keep a log book is 5 points. 

When do CSA points go away?

CSA points age , so as time passes, the points decrease.

A false logbook violation is 7 points. These points are subject to a time multiplier. For a violation that is less than 6 months old, the points are multiplied by 3. A 5-month-old false logbook violation would be 21 points.

Violations that are more than 6 months old but less than 12 months old are multiplied by 2. A 9 month old false logbook violation would be 14 points.

Violations that are more than 12 months old but less than 24 months old are multiplied by 1.

For violations older than 24 months, the points are not counted.

How long does a case take?

Three to four months is usually a good estimate of time.

Will I have to appear in court?

If you hire an attorney, your attorney can often attend court without you. Some courts require that a defendant attend pretrial conferences , but this is the exception rather than the rule. We represent many clients from out-of-state who never return to Arizona or attend court in-person. If you decide to enter into a plea agreement, it is possible you will have to appear by phone once.  If your case goes to trial, you will almost certainly need to attend the trial in person. You can discuss whether or not your presence is necessary with your attorney.

What if I don’t live in Arizona?

Most courts will let you appear by telephone for court appearances other than a trial. Some courts may require you to make this request in writing, others not. If you live out of state, call the court and ask them about their policies regarding telephonic appearances. If you have an attorney, your attorney can take care of this. If your case ends up going to trial, you will need to come back to Arizona for the trial. If your case is resolved without going to trial, you probably won’t need to physically return to Arizona.

Will a conviction affect my job?

It depends.

A single log book violation is not going to impact your legal ability to drive. However, depending on the policies of your particular employer, it could impact your job.

Can I set aside or expunge a conviction?

To expunge something means to make it dissappear entirely. Arizona only permits expungement in very limited circumstances. This is not one of those circumstances.

Arizona does have a mechanism to set aside convictions however. If the court sets aside a conviction, it means that the judge undoes the conviciton and dismisses the charge

The answer to “can you set aside a log book violation conviction” is “there is a good chance you can.” See our page about setting aside convictions for more details.

Arizona also has a mechanism to seal criminal records . This goes much further than a set aside towards removing a criminal conviction from one’s background.

Note however that any sealing or seting aside of a conviction does not affect what has been reported to ADOT and FMCSA.

Will a criminal conviction affect my immigration status?

Maybe. We always advise our clients to consult with an immigration attorney to get a definitive answer to this question. Keep in mind though that a log book violation is not like assault, fraud, theft, burglary or any crime that involves a victim. Also, it does not involve alcohol, drugs or guns, all of which will create major problems for immigration. If the charge involved intentionally making a false entry, this would probably be worse than simply failing to maintain a log. This is because making a false entry on purpose implies some dishonest motive, wherease failing to keep a log could be just an oversight.

In another post, we discuss potential immigration consequences with immigration attorney Jessica Cadavid.

Let’s see what we can do about that ticket.

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Introduction:

A log book is an essential tool for tracking important information, whether it’s for daily activities, work assignments, or special projects. Maintaining a logbook can help you stay organized, manage your time effectively and monitor progress. Whether you’re new to keeping a log book or looking to improve your record-keeping, here are twelve steps to help you fill out your log book effectively.

1. Choose the right log book format:

Select a format that suits your needs, whether it’s electronic (like a spreadsheet) or physical (like a notebook). Consider factors like portability, data security, and ease of access when making your decision.

2. Start with a clear purpose:

Define the purpose of your log book. Is it for tracking personal or professional goals? Are you monitoring progress on a specific project? When you have clarity about the purpose of your log book, it becomes much easier to maintain consistency and stay on track.

3. Create sections for relevant info:

Divide your log book into sections according to the information you need to record. This can include headings such as date, time, activity description, location, and any additional comments or observations.

4. Make entries clear and concise:

When making log entries, use clear and concise language so they’re easy to read and understand later on. Avoid using jargon or abbreviations that might create confusion.

5. Record information regularly:

Establish a routine for updating your logbook by setting aside specific times each day or week to update it. Regular updates make it easier to keep accurate records and ensure nothing is forgotten.

6. Use consistency in recording data:

To simplify data analysis and retrieval later on, use consistent formats when recording information (i.e., times as “HH:MM” and dates as “MM/DD/YYYY”).

7. Add context when necessary:

Include any relevant context where appropriate, such as weather conditions, resources used, or other factors that may impact your results or progress.

8. Monitor progress over time:

Review your log book entries regularly to assess progress and identify patterns or trends. This can help you make better decisions and adjustments as needed.

9. Keep your logbook secure:

If you’re using a physical logbook, store it in a safe place when not in use. For electronic logbooks, ensure you have strong passwords in place and backup your data regularly.

10. Update your logbook format as needed:

As circumstances change or as you identify improvements, make updates to your logbook format to meet your evolving needs.

11. Leverage the power of digital tools (when applicable):

If using an electronic logbook, explore available digital tools and apps to enhance functionality such as search features, tagging, or visualization options.

12. Review and learn from past entries:

Reflect on previous log book entries to learn from your mistakes, celebrate achievements, and gain insights to inform future actions.

Conclusion:

Filling out a log book is an effective way to stay organized, monitor progress, and improve efficiency. By applying these twelve steps, you’ll develop the skills to fill out your log book consistently and effectively. Remember to revisit and adjust your methods as needed so that your logbook continues to serve you well over time.

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• Workplace Skills

The What, Who, When & Why of Log Books

• Last Updated: 24 October, 2023

Record keeping and evidence collection is an integral part of Vocational Education and Training. Information on tasks completed and time spent completing these tasks can be required to award competency. Enter: Log Books also known as Training Record Books.

What is a Log Book?

A properly kept Log Book is a record that allows employers, students and training providers to identify workplace training being undertaken, the skills being acquired and the evidence of tasks being performed. Log books are a fantastic way to show volume of learning as it is evidence of a clear timeline of tasks being carried out.

RTOs need to assist employers in identifying and developing satisfactory methods of evidence collection and recording to make sure the correct format is used for the completion of the Log Book.

Who benefits from Log Books?

Students, employers, training/licence providers and industries. Basically, everyone in the lifecycle of the student and their training.

When should I use a Log Book?

On-The-Job . Log Books act like a journal of all your time spent “doing” the work you are skilling up for. It is a great practical evidence tool.

One big transport provider uses Log Books as a way to track driver exposure to certain aspects of their role and record the frequency and hours they have accumulated.

There are instances where a Log Book is a mandatory requirement to demonstrate successful completion. Where the training package specifies a requirement to complete a set number of hours i.e. High-Risk Licensing and Early Childhood Education and Care.

The student and supervisor need to record:

• Supervised practical training
• Operational experiences completed in the workplace
• Training from both workplace trainers and RTO trainers

Why is having a robust Log Booking solution so important?

Essentially, Log Books track hours and/or tasks that relate to a unit of competency. They serve as a record of the length of time amassed training in the field of study. Having a robust solution enables the process to be repeatable in an efficient and fair way for all students and saves time and storage if completed digitally rather than on paper.

With Cloud Assess, Learners can access their Log Book anywhere at anytime to keep records on the go. Not only this but task instances and cumulative values of time spent on each task are automatically tallied up with progress tracking available via “Reports” at any time.

The Log Books feature within Cloud Assess provides an innovative way of gathering supplementary evidence and supports your organisation with a range of benefits.  No more lost records or shuffling through papers to find what you need. Take the stress out of log books with Cloud Assess.

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The Essential Guide to Maintaining Your Vehicle Log Book

When it comes to managing and maintaining a vehicle, whether it’s for personal use or as part of a business fleet, keeping an accurate logbook is invaluable. 

A vehicle log book is a comprehensive record of a vehicle's usage, including details of maintenance, repairs, fuel consumption, and miles traveled. This guide simplifies the concept of a vehicle log book and offers practical advice on how to maintain one effectively.

What is a Vehicle Log Book?

A vehicle log book, often synonymous with a car log book, is a document or digital record that contains detailed information about a vehicle’s operational history. 

It serves multiple purposes, from tracking the vehicle’s performance and maintenance schedule to providing necessary documentation for tax purposes or resale value assessment. Essentially, it’s a diary for your vehicle, logging all the key events in its life.

The Importance of a Car Maintenance Log Book

The maintenance section of the log book is particularly important. It records every service, inspection, and repair carried out on the vehicle, including dates, specifics of the work done, and the names of the service providers. This log is vital for several reasons:

• Ensuring Regular Maintenance: It helps vehicle owners adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, ensuring the car remains in optimal condition.
• Warranty Compliance: Keeping a detailed maintenance record is often necessary to comply with warranty requirements.
• Resale Value: A well-maintained log book can significantly increase a vehicle's resale value, as it provides proof of proper care and maintenance.
• Cost Tracking: It aids in tracking and managing vehicle-related expenses over time.

How to Maintain a Car Log Book

Maintaining a vehicle log book, whether in physical or digital form, is straightforward if you follow a consistent approach. Here’s how to do it:

Choose Your Medium

First, decide whether you want to go the traditional route with a paper log book or use a digital log book, such as an app or spreadsheet. 

Both have their advantages. Paper log books are tangible and don't require technology, making them simple and straightforward. Digital log books, on the other hand, can be easily backed up, shared, and are less likely to be lost or damaged.

What to Record

Your log book should include the following information for each entry:

• Date: The date of the service, repair, fuel purchase, or journey.
• Mileage: The vehicle's mileage at the time of the entry. This helps track when the next service is due and can also be used to monitor fuel efficiency.
• Details: For maintenance and repairs, include a detailed description of the service provided, parts replaced, and the name and contact information of the service provider. For fuel purchases, note the amount of fuel, cost, and, if possible, the price per gallon or liter.

Maintenance and Repairs

Every time your car goes in for service or repairs, make a note of it in your log book. Include details such as the type of service (e.g., oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection), any parts that were replaced, the cost, and the service provider's details. 

This not only helps you keep track of your vehicle's maintenance history but also provides a record of the parts that have been replaced and when.

Fuel Purchases

Tracking fuel purchases can give you insight into your vehicle's fuel efficiency and help you budget for fuel costs. Record the date, amount of fuel purchased, cost, and your vehicle's mileage. 

Over time, this can help you identify any changes in fuel efficiency, which might indicate a maintenance issue.

Regular Updates

The most important aspect of maintaining a vehicle log book is keeping it up to date. Make it a habit to record entries as soon as possible after any event occurs. This ensures that your log book is accurate and complete, providing a reliable record of your vehicle's history.

What Does a Car Log Book Look Like?

A car log book acts as a comprehensive diary for your vehicle, detailing its life on the road and in the shop. It's divided into distinct sections for easy navigation and record-keeping. The personal details section captures the owner's information, ensuring the log book stays with the right vehicle. Vehicle information, including the make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), lays the foundation, giving a clear identity to the car in question.

The core of the log book consists of logs for service, repairs, and usage. Each entry is meticulously organized by date and mileage, providing a chronological timeline of the vehicle's history. Space is allocated for detailed notes on the nature of each maintenance or usage event, whether it's a routine oil change, a significant repair, or a simple fuel fill-up.

This layout is intentionally designed for clarity and ease of reference. The goal is to allow anyone, whether the owner, a prospective buyer, or a mechanic, to quickly understand the vehicle's history at a glance. Such an organized record is invaluable for maintaining the health of the vehicle, ensuring warranty compliance, and potentially enhancing its resale value.

How to Keep a Log Book

Maintaining a log book is a practice in diligence and attention to detail. The first step is ensuring the log book, whether a physical book or a digital file, is always within reach. For a physical book, this might mean keeping it in the glove compartment; for a digital log, it means having access on your smartphone or another mobile device.

The principle is simple: after every trip, maintenance service, or fuel purchase, take a moment to record the details. This includes the date, mileage, nature of the service or trip, and any costs incurred. Such regular updates are crucial for keeping the log book accurate and comprehensive.

This habit of prompt record-keeping ensures that the log book reflects a reliable history of the vehicle's usage and care. It's not just about logging miles or tracking expenses; it's about creating a detailed narrative of your vehicle's life. This narrative is key to understanding your vehicle's performance over time, making informed maintenance decisions, and providing a transparent record for future buyers.

Tips for Effective Car Log Book Maintenance

• Be Consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to logbook maintenance. Develop a routine for updating your log book and stick to it.
• Keep Receipts: For maintenance and repairs, keep receipts and attach them to your logbook entries (if using a paper log) or store them digitally. This provides additional proof of service and can be helpful for warranty claims or selling the vehicle.
• Use Reminders: Set reminders for regular maintenance checks based on your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or past entries in your log book. This helps ensure your vehicle doesn't miss important services.
• Review Regularly: Periodically review your logbook to familiarize yourself with your vehicle's maintenance schedule and identify any recurring issues or upcoming services.

Final Words

A vehicle log book is a critical tool for managing the health, performance, and expenses of your vehicle. By maintaining a detailed and accurate log, you not only ensure your vehicle’s longevity and reliability but also protect its value over time. 

Whether you opt for a traditional paper book or a digital log, the key to success is regular, detailed entries that capture every aspect of your vehicle's life. With this essential guide, you're now equipped to start or improve your vehicle log book, ensuring you and your vehicle enjoy many happy and efficient miles together.

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Track mileage automatically

What is a log book, in this article, log books for business-related travel, log book formats.

A log book is a record of events, presented in a systematic manner. While there are many types of log books based on their purpose, in this article we focus on log books that concern individuals who drive for work.

Automate Your Mileage Tracking

A log book, is often used to record business-related trips for employee reimbursement or tax deduction purposes. Depending on your local tax authorities and your situation, your log book will need to contain specific information. It is important that you follow the set requirements, as your log book is considered an official record and is often submitted to your tax authority.

Common details to record in your log book include the distance you drive, the date and time of driving, and the destination and purpose of your journeys.

See what you should record in your log book according to your situation:

• Mileage log book requirements in the US
• Mileage log book requirements in Canada
• Mileage log book requirements in the UK
• Mileage log book requirements in Australia

Log books are accepted in a broad range of formats both by your employer and your local tax authority. You can choose the format that fits you best according to your needs.

Paper log books are available for purchase in bookstores and online, and range in paper size. They have predetermined fields to fill out - make sure they fit the requirements your log book has to meet! You have to manually fill out the details and calculate reimbursement or deductions amounts.

Excel and Sheets log books provide flexibility as you can determine the fields to fill out and they can be automated to a certain extent by using formulas.

We have created Excel, Sheets and PDF log books for multiple countries, following the local tax authorities guidelines:

• Mileage log book template for the US
• Mileage log book template for Canada
• Mileage log book template for the UK
• Log book template for Australia

Automatic records for your log book

You can automate your log book to avoid manually wiritng down trip details and free up time. It can be in the form of a GPS device you place in your vehicle, or a mobile application. App car log books like Driversnote are customised to fit different countries’ requirements and record your driving automatically. Then, Driversnote helps you create log books you can use for your mileage reimbursement or deductions.

Tired of logging mileage by hand?

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How to Fill Out a DOT Log Book

Filling out a driver log book is an essential task for any commercial truck driver, and electronic logging devices make compliance easier.

Table of Contents

 Filling out a driver’s log book is an essential task for any commercial truck driver. Trucker’s log books aren’t just company policy: filling them out is a federally mandated law. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) expects all long-haul commercial drivers to fill out this information after every shift. While trucker’s log books still exist, though, they’re largely being supplanted  electronic logging devices (ELDs) , which offer a near real-time view into fleet-wide activity. On top of log books, driver scorecards ensure your team is adhering to all regulations.

What is a DOT log book? 

A DOT log book is an official federal document used to track when a driver takes breaks. Also known as a trucker’s log book or driver’s log book, these records are required to specify when they are driving, on duty but not driving, off duty and when they’re sleeping. 

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Trucker’s log books are used to enforce federal regulations regarding driver behavior. For example, long-haul commercial truck drivers have sleep requirements within a 24-hour driving period. FMCSA log books ensure that commercial truck drivers are adhering to the laws. 

These log books should be filled out daily and are often checked by a DOT agent. If logs are falsified, or a driver fails to fill them out, the driver and trucking company could be vulnerable to federal prosecution. As a result, drivers must have good logging habits to comply with fleet health and safety compliance best practices . 

Why DOT log books are important

Drivers may brush off DOT log books as unnecessary; sometimes, road experience can drive employees to think they know more than the government. However, log books are in place to protect drivers. Runner’s fatigue is a very real threat for long-haul truckers, and studies suggest that tired drivers are less alert to crisis situations. 

Many drivers feel pressure to arrive early at their destination to maximize the money they receive. This can create dangerous, pressure-fueled driving environments for truckers and other drivers who share the road. 

ELDs play an important role in filling out DOT log books. ELDs hook directly into a vehicle’s engine and record when the vehicle is on, idle and in motion. 

In the past, DOT log books were an analog affair: Drivers would record their hours on a designated sheet provided by the FMCSA. ELDs have digitized this process, so hours of service (HOS) recording is simpler and more accurate, allowing drivers to comply more easily with DOT HOS regulations .

How often should you fill out the DOT log book?  

Drivers should fill out DOT log books daily. It’s essential to stay up to date on HOS. Keeping an accurate DOT log book is not only the law, but an essential business practice. 

With ELDs, log book upkeep is more important than ever. It’s essential for log books to match ELD records, so staying current with your DOT log book is very important. DOT agents and representatives will often check log books to ensure they’re compliant. If they’re not, both your company and the driver are at risk for federal prosecution. 

Who fills out the DOT log book? 

Drivers are responsible for filling out DOT log books, and your company is responsible for keeping the log books organized. Drivers sign their log books when they’re complete, and the FMCSA holds the driver responsible for the information. 

Sometimes, companies will push drivers to go outside FMCSA rules and regulations. Because the driver signs each log book, the driver holds the most liability. Drivers whose companies push them beyond the law’s limits are protected under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA), which helps them stay HOS compliant.

How to fill out a DOT log book

Traditional log books are made up of a chart with four sections separated into 24 boxes. Each box represents one hour. As drivers continue throughout their day, they’re required to draw horizontal or vertical lines through each status to indicate how they’re spending their time. There are four possible statuses: 

• On-duty (not driving)

Here’s an example of what a log book looks like:

Horizontal lines indicate the time a driver spent during a certain status, while vertical lines indicate a change in status. For example, if your worker drove from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., they’d draw a horizontal line through those four boxes. If they transitioned to an off-duty status, they’d draw a vertical line to that designation on the chart, and then a horizontal line for how long they spent at that status.

For this example, let’s say your employee spent one hour at off-duty status. Once they’re ready to get back on the road at 2 p.m., they will draw a vertical line back to the driving section and start another horizontal one to track how long they’re at that status. 

As the driver changes status, it’s important to indicate the current location and what activity they’re completing. If your employee is on duty but not driving – loading, for example – they can include that comment in the remarks section. 

Here is other important information for the DOT log book to include:

• Current date
• Driver name
• Driver employment number
• Tractor numbers
• Shipping numbers
• Total hours from the last seven days

It’s often best to purchase paper logs with only the most basic DOT information on them. Some logs include too many sections to fill out, and when they’re left blank, it can get you in trouble with the DOT. 

A perfect example is the recap section, which isn’t an FMCSA requirement. However, if it’s left blank, DOT agents may give you a hard time. If your drivers use logs with many extra sections, you can use a dash to “fill it out” without inputting information. This indicates the section is unnecessary, which will help you in the event of a road inspection. 

How ELDs track DOT logs

While some companies may require drivers to fill out paper logs, they’re now technically obsolete. ELDs replace all the analog functions of a paper log, and can help your company keep HOS and record of duty status (RODS) numbers up to date. 

Here are some requirements an ELD must meet: 

• Connect to the truck’s engine to indicate when the vehicle is in motion.
• Select one of the following based on the vehicle’s movement: on duty, off duty or on duty not driving.
• Provide data in a standardized format to send to law enforcement via USB, Bluetooth or wireless web services.
• Meet product specifications outlined by federal DOT offices.

Many telematics companies provide ELDs as part of their fleet-tracking offering. Telematics companies can provide real-time tracking features that include data analytics software so you can better understand driver safety, reduce fuel costs , collect and analyze shipping data, and know your drivers’ general locations. 

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What Are Logbook And For What They Are Used For ?

Last Updated on January 28, 2019 by Amit Abhishek

You must have been asked many a times to fill a record book; whether be on ship, as a driver or being part of a business institution. Many a times we just do things for the sake of doing; without ever knowing what it really is and what does it used for ? A Logbook is an official document having records of important events and actions; taken in a particular time interval.

For long chemist used to take; note of every events and actions they take to reach to a final solution. This helps them to monitor and locate; possible point of error and give opportunity to fix in future. Similarly a Logbook is used to analyze performance of an unit, ship, industry, person or business; with the ability to do post damage analysis finding the cause.

Many a times they are also required by law or authorities; to ensure compliance to certain rules or just filling tax returns on business. Furthermore they are also required by the insurance company; to insure property or business. A logbook usually contain information such as; monetary transaction, training record, action taken and records in general.

You can consider it as the book with predefined set of questions in it; for which you need to fill in the blanks with the correct answers. A logbook is required to be simple; easy to read, easy to fill and customized based on the use / application.

Why Having A Logbook So Important In Ship & Business ?

A log book is the proof of your activity and actions taken in real time; ready to be looked at in the future. On ship this can be events in navigation, operation and control of the ship. Similarly this can be a record of hours you have worked, achievements, hours you volunteered and personal and business trips you made within a particular fiscal year.

Having a Logbook on ship and industries ensure safe operation with proper preventive maintenance. Furthermore it acts as a legal document for the certain steps and procedures; to be followed before reaching a particular sea water or to follow local rules. Basically it is a proof of what you actually did against what you said you do.

For trucks and commercial vehicles it helps monitor the mileage and performance of the vehicle; similarly on ship it monitor performance of equipment to predict the need for next preventive maintenance and spares to be ordered in advance. Furthermore this can also be beneficial to detect flaw and improve efficiency of the plat or ship.

This legal document with actions events written against the significant time; helps keep records of fleet or business in a central database. This helps improve efficiency saving unnecessary cost. Furthermore it helps being on the safe side of the local and international laws; with a easy time working with insurance and tax return if any.

Different Record / Log Books Used On Board Ship

Keeping a record / logbook is an integral part of ships safety management system; which is an integral part of the ISM code 1994-2018. The ISM stands for International safety management code and accounts to provide international standard; for pollution control; safety, management and operational capabilities.

Under ISM code 11.3 a ship is required to have a central database for all logs and records related to ship operation, spares and maintenance. Furthermore there should also be adequate backup including in form of hard copy. These hard copy is then required to be stored; for at least next five years before any further action.

All record and log books of international vessels must be filled in English language. They are required to be signed and counter signed by two different designated officers. All entries made must be true and precise to the relevant date and time. In event of false entries or damaging the records and log; the designated officer can be finned and charged with criminal act.

All entries made should be clear and amendments if required should be made with a single strike avoiding over writing or covering the mistake. The logbook of any kind is required to be closed only when a year is passed from the time opening it; or the ship is unregistered / changed its flag state / changed to new registry.

Major Record Book Used On Ship

A ship is required to have a continues synopsis record under SOLAS 1974, section one of five for regulation eleven ( XI – 1/5 ). It basically contains the records for ships history. Similarly a ship is also required to maintain a record associated to ships security plan; under the compliance of SOLAS 1974, section two of five for regulation eleven ( XI – 2/5 ) and ISPS Code.

An Oil record book under Marpol annex one regulation 17 and 36; store all the records of cargo operation related to oil, bunkering and accidental oil spill if any. All ships with 400 and more gross tonnage is required to have an official oil record book ( part I ); while oil tankers above 150 gross tonnage are required to have oil record book ( part I & II ).

Similarly all ships above 400 gross tonnage or caring more than 15 crew is required to have; a dedicated garbage record book under Marpol annex five regulation ten. The other record book a ship is bound to carry are; record book for ozone depleting substance and one related to ballast water management.

I have already discussed in past about Marpol annex five and the need for garbage record book. You can read the post “ Marpol Annex 5 And Its Latest Amendments ” from link over here .

Major Logbook Used On Ship

Bridge is the place from where the ship is controlled and all necessary actions are taken related to its safety and management. This is why the official log book; also termed as bridge log book resides at the bridge of the ship. The officer on deck is responsible to fill in the the log book as per the rules and requirement.

The officer on deck has to fill the ships position, weather condition; ships condition ( rolling, pitching, any abnormality if any etc ), captain name with COC details, any change in course if any and speed of ship. They are also required to fill about the next port, last port, drill conducted, compass readings, records of inventory; collision or grounding, oil spill and damage to ship if any.

In part two of the official log book; they have to fill information regarding the ship Articles. This contain important information such as; serial number, call sign, IMO number, Serial Number, ship’s particulars, registered owner, and crew particulars / details.

Just like official logbook on deck; engine rooms have their own log book which is called engine room log book. An engine room logbook contains all records related to; machinery, their spares, maintenance, breakdown, accident, engine parameters and pump operational records.

Furthermore it also accounts for records such as, location of ship, quantity of oil received, quantity of oil used, lub oil consumption, bunkering operation, bildge discharge, sludge, engine rpm, spares in store etc.

How To Correctly Fill In The Logbook

Filling a Logbook is relatively easier than the common believe. Being an official document it brings in sense of doubt and fear; which make us overthink and make silly mistakes. Just consider it like copying important notes you take throught the day or particular time to a nice to read and find notebook.

Start by filling the key points at the start of the Logbook. Its simple; all is written in place and you just have to fill in the blanks. Try to fill the logbook as soon as possible to the actual events; to avoid chance of error or loss of data. Fill in the details and records as per the designated date; once done due sign the entries and send to higher authority to cross check and ensure everything is correct.

Many a times some information can’t be filled in the designated space provided in the log book. On one such case you should write on an external piece of paper attached to the log; while providing a reference number of the external document in place. Under no circumstance over write on the logbook.

In some logbook as used in shore based industry and business; you need to provide the hour of your work. You can either write it in number or can use a straight line to specify on the given graph. Only make corrections with due sign if asked by the superiors; use a single strike to cancel the last entry and write in the adjacent empty space.

Do We Need Log / Record Book In Personal Life ?

Let’s face it ! Its frustrating and hard to maintain writing records of key action, events and transaction of the day each night. Even you may wonder sometimes what its use in future; but i really pays off when most needed. While we have records of calls on our mobile, major transaction on bank statement; we still need to log it down to avoid missing on small points which too matters.

Personally i keep records of my all transaction and expenses for the day on page on page basis for designated date. While in short term it helps keep a check on my unnecessary expense; and help find the hole where the money is slowly poring through my monthly budget. In long run it become very handy specially during monetary dispute with friends and business partner in general.

The budget planner record book helps me look at the particular day expenses and events in a better picture; any where in the distant future. The best part of all is the events and actions already broken on a day to day basis; making it easier for me to scan through.

Its simple cost effective and efficient solution to your financial management. One can buy one such record book with professional looking design and features; from link over here on amazon.

So stop freaking out on your empty pockets at the months end and take control Over your finances. At last there a reason why they ask us to maintain log on ship, business and institution; its jut increase transparency and reduce loss. So why can’t be wise enough to replicate the same in our life.

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A Complete Guide to Construction Daily Reports [+Templates]

What’s a construction daily report .

A construction daily report or daily log is a document that includes all of the details and events of a single day working on a construction project. Site managers or contractors fill out and file these reports to keep an up-to-date record of the relevant project information. The reports typically include things like a list of crew members, material and equipment usage, incidents, job progress, and more. 

What’s the purpose of a construction daily report? 

The purpose of construction daily reports and logs is to provide a detailed description of an ongoing construction project. The daily report includes anything that the stakeholders, investors, project owners, and contractors need to know about that project.

These reports are useful for keeping everyone on the same page. They help to make sure that everyone is aware of any potential delays and that they are getting updates on the progress that is being made toward project completion.

Given how essential these documents are to the project’s success, it’s important that your construction daily reports and logs are accurate and thorough. That’s why we’ve created a complete guide to writing construction daily reports. Continue reading this article for everything you need to know about creating and filing your documents.

• How to write a construction daily report

Here are four basic steps to follow when writing your construction daily reports:

Step 1: Create a cover page 

The very first step in creating a construction daily report is drafting the cover page. A cover page provides basic information about the project, including the project name, the date, the location of the job site, and your name. The report’s cover page lets you and your client know at first glance what’s inside.

Step 2: Record details of crew and job site

The majority of a construction daily log will include essential information and even minute details about the project. Recording these details of your project will be the most involved step in creating your daily report. 

Make sure to complete the report in a timely manner and don’t wait until the end of the workday to try and complete the entire daily report. You should add information to your report every hour or so throughout the day, or any time a significant event occurs.

Timely recording can also reduce the chance that you’ll forget important details about the project that day. Consider leveraging technology like construction project management software that can streamline the process and simplify your workflow for creating reports.

Step 3: Sign and date 

Don’t forget to sign and date your construction daily reports, as this makes them official. Once work at the job site is finished, you should set aside some dedicated time to review your completed report to look for any mistakes and review the progress your team made. 

When you’re satisfied with your report, sign, and date it. Making this part of your routine helps you ensure that the daily report is accurate and completed at the end of every day.

Step 4: File the report

Once you’ve reviewed and signed your construction daily report, be sure to promptly send it to your client. Construction software apps for daily reports can streamline the process for sending these documents to your clients. Apps can enable you to create your reports digitally and send them instantly to your client or other team members in real-time.

10 things you need to document on your construction daily reports 

Construction daily reports provide the most accurate picture of what goes on at the job site. That’s why it’s important to include as many details as possible when creating your report. Here are ten must-have sections to include in your construction daily reports and logs:

1. Job details

The first section should include specific details about the job or project, including things like the job name, the job type, and the job number.

You should also include a brief description of the phase the job is in. For example, you should note if the workday included demolition, groundbreaking, framing, and so on.

2. Crew list

It’s best to record all crew members present at the job site. This information helps you cover your bases in case questions arise concerning attendance or payroll. 

A crew list also helps promote safety in your work environment. Knowing who is on the site will help you ensure you’ve got enough workers to complete daily tasks and that no one is being stretched beyond their limits to work safely.

3. Weather conditions

Your documentation should include the weather report for that day, including things like temperature, wind speeds, and any precipitation. 

Bad weather can bring your workday (and sometimes your work week) to a grinding halt, so it’s important to note the conditions of each day so you can record delays that are caused by the weather.

4. Work accomplished 

In this section, detail project completions and progress that occurred. Make sure to record individual tasks and what took place to move them forward, as well as include the job’s progress as a whole. 

Some days, you might have to note that no progress was made or that you’re experiencing delays because of material or staff issues. Even if the project doesn’t see forward progress, document what’s been done and the overall status of the job.

5. Site visitors

Sometimes you might have visitors to the construction site. These visitors could include investors, reporters, company leadership, and even family. 

Any time someone other than your crew enters the work site, you should record it in your daily report. This helps you stay compliant and provide accurate paperwork should an accident occur on-site.

6. Equipment on site 

All heavy machinery on a worksite must be accounted for. You’ll need to include the equipment present and how many hours each machine was used. 

Even if a piece of machinery wasn’t used that day, note that it was parked at the site. This documentation provides information that can be used to maintain the equipment and ensure that every piece is where it should be.

7. Material quantities

A daily construction report also helps you keep track of the amount of materials available each day, as well as the quantity of those materials used. 

This data gives you a clear picture of how much progress a crew makes each day. It also helps you to plan new orders by knowing what you begin and end each day with for materials.

8. Material deliveries

Material deliveries go hand-in-hand with material quantities. Knowing how many and which building materials arrived on-site ensures that your company receives the shipments they’re paying for. 

You should make a note if a shipment doesn’t arrive as scheduled. If your crew is delayed in completing tasks due to a lack of materials, you will then have a record of the missed delivery and show that you’re not at fault.

9. Potential delaying events

A late material delivery can cause severe delays at your work site. But that’s not the only reason for slowed or even  halted progress . 

Your daily construction report needs to include any event that caused a delay or could potentially cause a delay. These events could be things like a significant crew absence, weather, or malfunctioning equipment, for example.

10. Incidents and accidents

Safety is the number one goal for all contractors. But when incidents occur, you are required to report them.

Your daily reports should note both significant incidents, as well as any near misses that occur. In addition to your daily report, you are also required to formally file a separate incident report.

Consider using incident report apps that can help with the process and provide templates to use when incidents happen for creating the reports and sharing them with all the appropriate parties.

• How to use reports to improve your services

Construction daily reports offer more than just a record of what occurred on a work site. When utilized correctly, they can also serve as tools to help you improve your services. Here are three ways your daily logs can improve your team’s productivity and quality:

1. Increase efficiency 

Construction daily reports are more than just progress notes for the client. You can also gauge the efficiency of your entire operation by reviewing and analyzing the data on your reports.

Mobile apps can help to create your reports and then the data is available so you can see the full picture of your team’s progress and if they are completing tasks to your standards.

2. Save money 

Every company wants to save money, without cutting any corners. Your daily reports provide valuable data about money spent on materials, employees, and more.

Data from your reports can help you to discover patterns and trends. It can help to understand when and why a job is being delayed. By analyzing this information, you can discover patterns in spending, and where budgets can be restructured to save both time and money.

Digitizing your daily reports through mobile apps can help to ensure that you’re collecting the right information and the data is easily accessible in the form of analytics that provides useful insights for your operations team.

3. Streamline workflows 

Daily logs detail everything that happens on a job site and they can help you see what you’re doing well and what can be improved. 

Digitizing this information and making it more accessible will enable your team to find better, faster, and even safer ways to complete your projects. 

When you complete your reports on an app, the reports can instantly be sent to the office, clients, and other team members who need access in real-time. This helps to streamline workflows, save time for your employees, and improve the processes that are in place for sharing and communicating documentation for your business.

Optimize your daily reports with digital processes 

Construction daily reports contain essential information for documenting the progress and status of your projects. Consider implementing simple mobile apps for contractors that can help you to easily capture the details of a day on your site with digital documentation.

Your peers in the construction industry have found that these tools give them a competitive advantage, increase productivity, and eliminate much of the time spent on paperwork and other manual tasks.

All of this can lead to greater profitability for your business, projects completed on schedule, and increased satisfaction and retention of your workers with modern processes in place to help them succeed.

• Why you should use construction daily log apps

Many contractors and construction firms are moving their daily logs to the digital format using mobile apps to record daily logs and create PDF reports. This technology works well for the construction industry because it provides mobility and ease of use for many people to enter the required information into mobile forms. 

Once the information is collected, it’s instantly shared as a formatted report and the data can be used for reporting and analytics purposes. The end result is a more efficient way to collect information in the field and greater visibility into operations. 

This saves valuable time by reducing manual paperwork and outdated processes and it gives the business insights needed to make decisions that help the business operate in smarter ways.

• Free Examples and Templates

General Construction Daily Log

The construction daily log makes it simple to keep track of a daily report of work performed and noteworthy updates that occur daily on a job site. The mobile app can be completed using a tablet or a phone to ensure that all of the important data from the field is captured and shared back with the office.

The mobile app can also be used as a time-tracking tool, helping to eliminate paperwork for managers on-site. The daily log is designed for documenting all employee’s activities so that management can monitor productivity in real-time to avoid potential delays. 

How it works:

• Capture images of work completed
• Add details about potential safety hazards and other daily work details
• A digital report is automatically generated and sent to the construction manager, general contractor, and safety managers.
• Customize the app to add specific inspections or other required documentation that is required for your job site.
• Subcontractor Daily Logs

Looking for a specific template to use based on the type of subcontractor work? Follow the links below to find additional examples and templates by use case.

• Carpenter Daily Log
• Cleaning Crew Daily Log
• Drywall Daily Log
• Electrical Daily Log
• Fire Sprinkler Installer Daily Log
• Heavy Equipment Operator Daily Log
• HVAC Daily Log
• Mold Remediation Daily Log
• Painting Daily Log
• Plumbing Daily Log
• Roofing Daily Log
• What’s a construction daily report?
• What’s the purpose of a construction daily report?
• 10 things you need to document on your construction daily reports
• Optimize your daily reports with digital processes

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GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers.  

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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Free Work Log Sheet Templates With Examples and a How-To Guide

By Kate Eby | July 13, 2023

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We’ve collected the best work log templates for a range of uses, in Microsoft Word, Excel, Adobe PDF, and Google Sheets and Docs formats. The templates help you track work activities and progress, to manage your time and stay organized.

Included on this page, you’ll find a daily work log template , a weekly work log template , a homework log template , and more.

Work Log Template

Download a Work Log Template for  Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | Google Sheets

Download a Work Log Template With Sample Text for Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | Google Sheets

Use this work log template to track work-related activities on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. View the sample template to see what information you need, or on the blank template, fill in the date, name, department, and project or task details, then record the start and end times, the number of hours worked, and any comments or notes related to the task. This template is fully editable, so you can customize it to fit your needs. By using a work log template, you will stay organized, monitor your own productivity, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that you meet your goals and deadlines.

Check out this page of free Microsoft Word timesheet templates for more tools to manage your work schedule.

Daily Work Log Template

Download a Daily Work Log Template for  Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | Google Sheets

Use this template to track your work activities on a daily basis. Simply fill in the date, your name, and your department, then use the rows to record your project or task name, start and end time, total hours worked, and comments. If needed, you can edit the template by adding fields such as break times or tools used. This log will help you track daily productivity, meet goals and deadlines, and identify areas for improvement.

Check out this collection of free, downloadable daily timesheet templates or this comprehensive set of free daily schedule templates for more tools to manage your workday.

Weekly Work Log Template

Download a Weekly Work Log Template for  Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | Google Sheets

Use this template to track your weekly tasks. Simply fill in the date, along with your name and department, then list your tasks, daily hours worked, and any notes. Depending on your needs, you can also modify the template with additional columns. This log will help you track your productivity, identify improvement areas, and ensure that you meet your deadlines and goals.

Check out this complete selection of free weekly schedule templates for Microsoft Excel to round out your scheduling toolset. For options that allow real-time collaboration, try one of these free Google Sheets scheduling templates .

Homework Log Template

Download a Homework Log Template for  Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | Google Sheets

Use this template to track your homework assignments. Just note the date, subject, assignment name, due date, and completion status. Add comments you have about the assignment or challenges faced, if any. By keeping a record of your homework in this way, you can avoid missing important due dates and identify workload patterns or areas where you may need extra support.

What Is a Work Log?

A work log is a detailed record of tasks, activities, and time spent during a specific period that provides valuable insights into work patterns. Use a work log to help track productivity, manage time effectively, and identify areas of improvement.

By systematically documenting task descriptions, dates, times, and durations, you creates a comprehensive overview of how work time is distributed on the work log. This can help you identify productivity trends and pinpoint inefficiencies, and it can serve as a reference for future project planning or audits.

What Are the Types of Work Logs?

Work logs vary based on their use. For example, a daily work log tracks tasks and time spent each day, while a project log records activities associated with specific projects. Other types can include time logs or task logs.

Here are some common types of work logs:

• Time Logs: Time logs track the amount of time spent on specific tasks or activities. They help you understand how time is allocated and how it can be used for productivity analysis, resource allocation, and billing purposes.
• Daily Activity Logs: Daily activity logs provide a record of tasks, activities, and accomplishments for each day. They help in tracking progress, identifying patterns, and maintaining a record of work activities.
• Task Logs: Task logs focus on individual tasks or assignments. Use task logs to record details such as task descriptions, start and end times, status updates, and any relevant notes or comments. Task logs help teams and individuals manage and track tasks within a project.
• Project Logs: Project logs track activities, milestones, and progress related to a specific project. They capture information about project updates, deliverables, risks, issues, and any significant events or changes. Project logs serve as a historical record and aid in project management and reporting.

You can edit most work log templates to fit your needs. Any task or project that requires time or task tracking will benefit from the use of a work log.

Elements of Work Log

A typical work log usually contains elements such as task date, description, start and end times, duration, and additional notes or comments. Depending on the context, it might also include fields for project name, resources used, or any encountered issues.

These are some common elements of a work log:

• Date and Time: All work logs should include a date and time for each entry. This allows you to keep the sequence of tasks or activities organized.
• Task Description: Clearly describe the task or activity you are working on. Be specific enough that it is clear what you have accomplished or what needs to be done.
• Duration: Note the amount of time you spent on each task or activity. This can be in hours, minutes, or even seconds, depending on the level of detail you want to capture.
• Project or Category: If you are working on multiple projects or tasks, it can be helpful to assign each entry to a specific project or category. This allows for easy filtering and analysis of your work log later on.
• Notes or Comments: Use this section to include additional information or comments relevant to the task. It could be progress updates, issues faced, or other observations that might be useful for future reference.
• Milestones or Goals: If you have specific milestones or goals for a project or task, you can include them in your work log. This helps you track your progress in relation to your overarching goals.
• Follow-Up or Next Steps: At the end of each entry, consider adding a section for follow-up or next steps. This reminds you of any pending actions or tasks related to the logged activity.
• Signature or Initials: Include your signature or initials to indicate that you performed the task or activity.

How to Create a Work Log

To create a work log, define the elements you need to track, such as the task, start and end times, and duration. Arrange them in a document such as a spreadsheet, and fill it out as you complete your tasks.

Follow these simple steps to create a work log in Excel that will help you track your progress and record your work activities.

1. Download Your Work Log Template

• Download the work log template .
• In the menu bar, click File , then choose Save As …. Rename the template, and save it in a location that can be easily accessed.

2. Determine the Purpose of Your Work Log

• Define what you aim to achieve by recording your work activities.
• Consider if your purpose is to monitor progress toward certain goals, to identify areas needing improvement, or to keep a record of the tasks you've completed.

3. Fill in the Information for Your Work Log

• Enter the details for the Name, Contact, Today’s Date, Department, and Supervisor fields. 

• Fill in each activity in the Activity column. Enter the start and end times in HH:MM format, followed by either AM or PM , and the template will calculate the total time spent on the activity. Enter the status of the activity and any relevant notes. 

4. Review and Monitor Your Work Log Template

• Review the content of your work log template. Add or delete information in the template as needed.
• Customize your template to add tasks and update cost information as necessary.
• Share your customized work log template with interested parties.

What Is a Work Log Template?

A work log template is a preformatted tool designed to track work-related activities, tasks, and time spent. It provides a structured way to record and manage work data, ensuring consistency and ease in tracking productivity.

Work log templates streamline the process of creating and maintaining work logs, saving time and effort while ensuring consistency and clarity in recording work-related data. They are practical tools for individuals to track productivity, manage time effectively, and maintain a comprehensive record of their work activities for future reference or reporting purposes.

Benefits of Using a Work Log Template

Work log templates ensure consistency and accuracy in recording tasks, allowing individuals to monitor productivity and manage time. They also provide a comprehensive record of activities for future reference, which can aid in project planning, workload balancing, and performance reporting.

These are some benefits of using a work log template:

• Enhanced Time Management: A work log facilitates effective time tracking. By recording the duration of tasks, you can gain insight into time allocation, highlighting areas that require adjustment for optimal time use.
• Boosted Productivity Tracking: By documenting your tasks and accomplishments in a work log, you can see how much work you have completed, evaluate efficiency, and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Improved Task Prioritization: By keeping a clear record of your activities in a work log, you more effectively prioritize tasks. Use a template to help assess task importance, set priorities, and properly allocate your time and resources, ensuring that critical tasks are completed on time.
• Increased Accountability: A work log promotes accountability. Documenting tasks and progress enables objective performance assessment and offers a tangible record for reporting or sharing with others.
• Valuable Historical Reference: A work log serves as a historical reference, enabling you to review past activities, decisions, and outcomes. This can be valuable for evaluating performance, assessing projects, and replicating successful strategies.
• Proactive Problem Identification and Resolution: A work log helps detect patterns or recurring problems, allowing you to notice trends, bottlenecks, or improvement areas, then take proactive steps to address issues.
• More Effective Communication and Collaboration: A work log encourages transparency in communication and collaboration with team members. It provides a clear view of your progress, aiding in task coordination and shared insights.

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The Smartsheet platform makes it easy to plan, capture, manage, and report on work from anywhere, helping your team be more effective and get more done. Report on key metrics and get real-time visibility into work as it happens with roll-up reports, dashboards, and automated workflows built to keep your team connected and informed. 

When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

Discover why over 90% of Fortune 100 companies trust Smartsheet to get work done.

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Table of Contents

Log definition and meaning, what is a log, 10 types of logs, log uses, purposes, and importance, what’s in a log parts, how to design a log, log vs. log sheet, what’s the difference between log, report, and data.

• Log Ideas and Examples

More in Log

Logs are records used by companies to get the information they need and to protect their business. They allow business owners, managers, and other professionals to monitor customer behaviors, improve security, and provide enhanced customer support.

Download the Free Log Article in PDF

Attendance log.

Cleaning Service Log

Maintenance Log

Reading Log

Restaurant Log

University Log

IT and Software Log

Work From Home Log

Records information in a logical manner

Provides accountability, helps in estimating time, helps in reviewing your progress, ensures that employees are fully engaged, name of project or activity, number of hours, remarks and recommendations.

• Mileage Log Ideas and Examples
• Food Log Ideas and Examples
• Time Log Ideas and Examples
• Activity Log Ideas and Examples
• Call Log Ideas and Examples
• Work Log Ideas and Examples
• Daily Log Ideas and Examples
• Reading Log Ideas and Examples
• Workout Log Ideas and Examples
• Expense Log Ideas and Examples

What should be included in a log?

What is a daily log, what are logs in programming, what is log data structure, where are logs stored, what is the purpose of a work log, what are logs in business, what is the importance of a daily activity log, what does a log book have, what kind of data is in log files, more in documents.

Simple Daily Activity Log Template

Sample exercise log template, action mileage log template, time log template, blank vehicle log template, car maintenance log template, blank inventory log template, medication log template, employee attendance log template, maintenance log template.

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File Formats

Word templates, google docs templates, excel templates, powerpoint templates, google sheets templates, google slides templates, pdf templates, publisher templates, psd templates, indesign templates, illustrator templates, pages templates, keynote templates, numbers templates, outlook templates.

Daily Occurrence Book Report: A Guide on what to Record

You have a  daily occurrence book (DOB) and a security guard. Now, only one question remains: what does the security guard record in the daily occurrence book report?

Sometimes a daily occurrence book is jam full of information, at other times it is empty. Is this because of different levels of activity on site or is it because the security guard does not know what to record?

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Online Occurrence Book

Why bother to record anything in a daily occurrence book report?

There are two reasons to record events in daily occurrence book:

At first sight a daily occurrence book appears to be a reflection of site activity. However, it is also a measure of a security guard’s value. An empty daily occurrence book suggests little happens on site. As a result, the person paying for that security guard may remove them. It is therefore important to remember a daily occurrence book plays an important part in evidencing the value of a security guard.

A daily occurrence book may be referred to in a court of law. As a result they are often considered as important as a police officer’s note book . For this reason, no matter how innocuous the activity may appear at the time of recording, it is better to add rather than miss entries.

Every daily occurrence book report should include two types of information:

• The expected
• The unexpected

1. The Expected

Below is a list of entries expected in a daily occurrence book:

• Repeating duties :   Security patrols , lock-up and unlock, fire drills etc.
• Visitors and deliveries made to site
• Audits and inspections : CCTV camera and fire extinguisher checks etc.
• Assignment Instructions: Review and testing of assignment instructions
• Shift change over remarks: For instance, equipment checks and any ongoing issues that need to be resolved by the next shift
• Shift time: Start and end time of shifts

These events may appear mundane but if they are not recorded the reader will assume they have not occurred.

2. The Unexpected

The daily occurrence book should include unexpected security and safety events. Examples of these events are:

• Incidents: Building faults, near misses, trespass, theft etc.
• Security precautions: Additional security precautions taken for example, liaising with the nearby café about recent hostile reconnaissance  activity or protests in your area .
• Support: Support provided on site for example, helping a distressed driver with their vehicle parked on site.

If you are using a digital daily occurrence book it will allow you to add media to your entries: Pictures, videos and sketches are all helpful descriptive devices.

SIRV’s digital daily occurrence book integrates patrols, incidents and inspections in one place.

Here’s what the SIRV digital daily occurrence book   looks like:

If you are using a paper daily occurrence book this acronym will help with how to enter information correctly.

• L eaves torn out
• B lank spaces
• O verwriting
• W riting between lines

Giving a security guard a daily occurrence book but not providing training is like handing someone a tool without showing them how to use it.  This guide helps the security guard know how to use their tool, the daily occurrence book and evidence why they are needed on site.

More daily occurrence book articles:

• How to write a daily occurrence book
• Business case for daily occurrence book – free download
• Paper template of the daily occurrence book – free download
• Top 10 most popular types of daily occurrence book entries
• Innovate daily occurrence book with integrated threat notifications
• Access daily occurrence book according to permissions
• Chat GPT makes daily occurrence books easier
• How to present a daily occurrence book

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• Daily Occurrences
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• Martyn's Law
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What is SIWES?

SIWES (Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme) is an excellent programme for students to practice the skills they get during their university theoretical classes. It prepares the young generation to adapt to the industrial work conditions they will face after graduation.

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What is a SIWES logbook?

Every student doing SIWES must have a logbook. It contains log sheets for one to record all activities they perform and functions they attend at the training organization.

How to fill a SIWES logbook correctly

SIWES logbooks vary with learning institutions and training organizations. Since this article will only give you general information on how to fill a logbook for SIWES, always consult your supervisor or coordinator to avoid confusion.

1. Student’s personal and academic information

The first page of a SIWES logbook usually requires basic information about you and general details about your training:

Application and admission into DELSU made easy with DELSU portal

• Your passport photo (properly stapled)
• Your full name (starting with your surname)
• Your student id number
• The name of the university/college/etc.
• Your program of study/faculty/year of study
• Your phone/GSM number
• Your gender
• Name of training officer/supervisor
• Name of organization/company
• Name of training department(s)
• Your address
• Your next of kin's details

2. The details of the organization training the student is training

The next two pages of a SIWES logbook are "The Profile Page of the Company" and "The Chart Page of the Company." They contain information about the company you are training at.

Write down the name of the organization, its location (address) and the approximate number of production/available job positions /workers this company has on the first page. And the second page should contain the scheme of the company structure (chart).

3. The student’s daily attendance register

The SIWES student's attendance register is the third and most important page of a SIWES logbook. This sheet helps your coordinator to assess your diligence at work. Data can be written in an X/Y format, whereby X - is the total number of days attended and Y - is the total number of work days of your company.

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4. Supervisor’s assessment page

The page contains a monthly summary of student’s activities and the supervisor's assessment remarks. The supervisor will assess your:

• Punctuality.
• Concentration.
• Observation.
• Work quality.
• Time and duration for the jobs.
• Solving problems encountered during the jobs.
• Professionalism in carrying out your duties.
• Leadership quality during the job.

5. The student's final remarks on the SIWES program and the training organization

The next pages should cover your chart of progress per week. Your chart of progress per week is also a very influential part of your logbook. Each week gets two pages. One contains a table for you to summarize your day's experience and the practical skills you have gained.

The second one is a blank form. You can draw pictures, diagrams, schemes, and anything else worth writing into the logbook. The pictorial presentations you draw should reflect your experience and practical skills.

6. The supervisor's remarks and signature page

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The industrial training assessment sheet (end of programme evaluation) is an assessment page. Your chief/instructor/supervisor will also have a section on this page to fill out.

You are only allowed to write the duration of your training (from/to), your name, the name of the department you are attached to, the company name, the type of business the company deals in, and other official details. The coordinator will write an overall comment and signature and stamp on a sheet that marks the end of your training.

Samples of blank and filled SIWES logbook pdfs

As stated earlier, there is no standard SIWES logbook format for all learning institutions and training companies in Nigeria. Therefore, these institutions design documents that suit the course and the training program.

It would help if you checked different samples of industrial training logbook pdfs online to get an overview of companies' different formats. Most industrial training logbooks have these sections:

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• Student information page
• Activities page
• Organization profile page
• Diagram page
• Supervisor’s page
• Monthly evaluation page
• Student’s suggestion page
• Attendance register page
• Remarks and signature page

You can click on the links below to check sample training logbooks and pdfs for these courses:

How to fill SIWES logbook for Medical Laboratory

The hospital/Medical Laboratory logbook is usually a premium 35-page six-month document for students undergoing industrial training in various medical laboratories (diagnostic centres) and hospital laboratory departments in Nigeria.

How to fill SIWES logbook for Computer Science

Be as detailed as possible in your Computer Science SIWES logbook entries because the more specific you are, the easier it will be to reflect on your experience later.

How to fill SIWES logbook for Architecture

A SIWES logbook for Architecture is designed to help students refresh their theoretical acquisition as they write their practical knowledge.

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How to fill SIWES logbook for Mass Communication

The complete SIWES logbook for Mass Communication provides a detailed overview of the student's findings and the practical skills they get at the training organization.

How to fill SIWES logbook for Electrical Engineering

Do not record activities not relevant to your training in your logbook. You are responsible for the accuracy of entries in your SIWES logbook for Electrical Engineering .

How do you write a good logbook?

These are some of the things you should include in your SIWES logbook entries:

• Meetings you attended and your contributions.
• Completed tasks or projects.
• Notes from tours of laboratories.
• The research you conducted and where/what you explored.
• Calculations.
• Library/internet searches.
• Official phone calls .
• Corporate interviews.
• Programs or software you used to complete your tasks.
• Meetings with mentors or advisors.
• Discussions with teammates.

How do I write a SIWES report?

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Use these tips to keep your logbook in good shape:

• Do write a few days to the end of your training programme: Start from the day you began the training.
• Keep the logbook neat: Scribble your entries in a notebook and review them before transferring the details to the logbook.
• Use legible handwriting: The size of your handwriting should be easy for the training coordinator to read.
• Your logbook entries should be orderly and consistent: Each day's entry should start on a new page.
• Computer filling: Make folders and subfolders for projects if your logbook entries are in soft copy. Please use a standardized naming format.
• Summarize your work at the end of the day or week: Use lists and pictorial presentations like graphs, tables, and charts where possible.
• Write a conclusion: The summaries at the end of experiments and research work will help you write a meaningful conclusion.

When is JAMB registration 2019 ending?

How do I pay for SIWES?

• Visit the SIWES website .
• Click on the " Get Started " link below.
• Enter your " Matriculation Number" to access the pre-payment page.
• Verify your " profile information" on the pre-payment page.
• Click " Make Payment. "
• Select " SIWES dues and Logbook Charges. "
• After payment, a message containing your " username " and " password " is sent to the email account you have on your student profile (as displayed on the pre-payment page).
• Use the " username " and " password " to sign in and complete your SIWES registration.
• After completing your registration, a day will be scheduled for you to collect your SIWES logbook and other documents.

We have discussed the main points and pages of a SIWES logbook. You can always refer your family and friends to this page if they also need to know how to fill a SIWES logbook correctly. It would also help if you watched the video attached below. It contains other useful tips about filling out the SIWES logbook.

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READ ALSO : Best jobs for introverts: Top 10 career ideas

Legit.ng also shared a list of the ten best jobs for introverts . Introverts have many advantages that make them the most suitable employees for specific workplaces.

For instance, they are good listeners because they feel more comfortable listening than talking. They also think before they speak and mind what they say.

Source: Legit.ng

Peris Walubengo (Lifestyle writer) Peris Walubengo is a content creator with 3 years of experience in writing informational and entertainment articles, researching, editing, and proofreading. She has a Bachelor of Commerce & IT from the University of Nairobi (class of 2019). She joined Legit.ng in April 2022. She covers bios, marketing & finance, tech, fashion & beauty, recipes, movies and video game reviews, culture & traveling. In 2023, Peris finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Email: [email protected].

Adrianna Simwa (Lifestyle writer) Adrianna Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng where she has worked since mid-2022. She has written for many periodicals on a variety of subjects, including news, celebrities, and lifestyle, for more than three years. She has worked for The Hoth, The Standard Group and Triple P Media. Adrianna graduated from Nairobi University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in 2020. In 2023, Simwa finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. You can reach her through her email: [email protected]

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Book Report Form and Reading Log Printables

This post may contain affiliate or advertiser links. Read my full disclosure policy .

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With Laurianna reading like a fiend, keeping up with all of the books that she is devouring can be a bit exhausting. Usually she will tell me {in extensive detail} what the books are about, so to help with book summaries and also have her gather a little more info, I put together a book report form for her to use once or twice a month.

The Book Report Form includes room for: book title, author, number of pages, publisher, copyright date, setting, main characters, summary, two vocabulary words, and book rating/evaluation.

Book Report Download

I also put together a Book Reading Log for the kids to write down information about the books that they are reading, either independently or together as a family.  The Reading Log has room to record up to 5 books {I print it off double-sided} and the kids can record: book title, author, number of pages, publisher, copyright date, date started reading and date reading was completed.

Reading Log Download

Don’t miss this updated book report form.

More recently we created another fun book report form for one of our younger children. Be sure to check it out in this post for another free download.

This is great. Thank you!

Very cool. Thanks for sharing.

You just saved me a ton of time! I was looking for something like this!

Thank you just was I was looking for!

Yay – glad they will help you out! ;)

Thank you! These are wonderful and just what I was looking for! :)

yay!! so glad to hear that, Debi. :)

I’ve seen several reading logs online, yours is by far the best one I’ve found. We are a family that loves to read, so you can count that your log will be used quite frequently. Thank you so much for sharing.

Thanks, Jackie – enjoy using it!

Do you use this book report with the 11 books to read in kindergarten? or just with any book they read?

usually with the older kiddos. :)

Thank you for this great resource!

Going to start home schooling my special needs 7th grader and I love the format of your reading log. Excellent, thank you for the resource!

most welcome!! :) I hope it is a huge help to you.

just what i needed; thanks so much!

I came online to look for a book report and reading log and I thought “I bet Jolanthe has one on her site.” And ta da! You do! Thanks :)

That’s why I had to make that A to Z list – it wasn’t really for everyone else, it was because half of the time I can’t remember my own things! :)

These are amazing. I printed them and when I did it printed the box outline, but left off all the black lines. Did anybo.dy else have this issue? Thank you!

Hmmm… haven’t had that issue. Is your Adobe up to date?

Thanks so much for all your printables!! They have helped me tremendously! God bless you for all your hard work and sharing with the homeschool community. :)

Enjoy, Shannon! :)

Thank you so much!!

Love this, but I am looking for a template/spreadsheet where my daughter can type in the books she’s read and print the page when it’s full. Anything like that available?

until you find something you could use this as a chance to work on penmanship skills. She could work on her print writing or cursive. ^_^

Very Useful… Thank You for sharing…

Love it, you always have such great ideas!

Thank you so much for the free print-able book report and reading log’s. I like your web-site and plan to come back again soon.

Enjoy, Becky! :)

This is perfect! Thank you for sharing your wonderful resource!

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Hello! My name is Jolanthe {pronounced Yo-lawn-the}. On my site, you will find a listing of  free educational printables , helpful  tips and resources  for families,  encouragement for your homeschool journey , and a  homeschool planner to help you get organized . Feel free to  contact me  with questions!

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A Beginner's Guide to Writing a Book Report (with Examples)

Last Updated: June 25, 2024 Fact Checked

• Researching
• Drafting the Report
• Reviewing & Revising

Sample Book Reports & Summaries

Expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,425,761 times.

A book report is a short essay that summarizes and analyzes a work of fiction or nonfiction. Writing a book report may not seem fun at first, but it gives you a great chance to fully understand a work and its author. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to write a book report, from choosing a book and outlining to drafting and editing your final paper.

Things You Should Know

• Read the entire book and take notes on important themes, characters, and events. Use your notes to create an outline with evidence that supports your analysis.
• Include the title and author in your intro, then summarize the plot, main characters, and setting of the book.
• Analyze the author’s writing style, as well as the main themes and arguments of the book. Include quotes and examples to support your statements.

Researching Your Book Report

• For example, find out if your teacher wants you to include citations, such as page numbers from the book, in your report.
• Ask your teacher how much of your paper to devote to summary versus analysis. Most book reports are direct summaries with objective analysis rather than your personal opinions. In contrast, a book review or commentary is more opinion-driven.

• Some popular books for book reports include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Animal Farm by George Orwell, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Choose a book at your grade level.

• Author: Who wrote the book? Do you know any other works by this author?
• Genre: Is the book fiction or nonfiction? If it’s fiction, is it historical, fantasy, horror, etc.? If it’s nonfiction, is it a biography, memoir, science, etc.?
• Audience: Who would find this book appealing? Is it intended for a specific age range or gender? Do you typically enjoy books like this?
• Title: Does the title catch your interest? Does it fit well with the book’s content?
• Book Cover/Illustrations: What does the book cover convey and does it accurately represent the book? How do you feel when you look at it? If the book has illustrations, what are they and do they hold your interest?

• Take breaks while reading to keep your attention sharp. Try to find a pace that is comfortable for you. If you get distracted after 15 minutes, read in 15-minute intervals. If you can go an hour, read for an hour at a time.
• Give yourself enough time to read the entire book. It’s very difficult to write a book report if you’ve just skimmed over everything. Don’t procrastinate!
• Don’t trust online book summaries. You can’t guarantee that they are accurate or true to the text.

• For example, look for a sentence that clearly describes a main setting in the book, such as “The castle was gloomy and made out of large black stones.”

Outlining Your Book Report

• Introduction: Introduce the title, author, and publication information. Include a brief overview of the book’s genre and main theme, and state your purpose for writing the report.
• Summary: Concisely summarize the plot or central idea, highlighting main events, characters, and conflicts. Focus on important aspects while avoiding spoilers.
• Analysis and Evaluation: Evaluate the author’s writing style and use of literary devices, like foreshadowing, metaphors, imagery, etc. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the book and use quotes and examples from the text.
• Themes and Messages: Identify the book’s main themes or messages and how they develop through the course of the book. Provide specific quotes and examples.
• Character Analysis: Analyze the main characters in the book, their development, and their relationships. Explain their motivations, personalities, and significance to the story. Provide examples and quotes to support your analysis.
• Personal Reflection: Depending on your teacher’s instructions, you might share your personal opinions and discuss what you liked and disliked about the book. Reflect on how the book relates to broader themes or issues.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points and conclude with your final thoughts or reflections on the book.
• Bibliography: If required, include a works cited page or bibliography listing all the sources you used to write your book report.
• Outlining takes time, but it saves you more time once you reach the editing stage.
• Some people prefer to outline with pen and paper, while others just type up a list on the computer. Choose the method that works best for you.

• Be careful not to overuse quotes. If it seems like every other line is a quote, try to dial back. Aim to include a maximum of one quotation per paragraph. Quotes and examples should still take a backseat to your summary.

• For example, you’ll likely need to focus primarily on discussing the most important characters or the characters that appear most frequently in the text.
• When you are finished with your outline, go back through it to see if it makes sense. If the paragraphs don’t flow into one another, move them around or add/delete new ones until they do.
• Also, check to see if your outline covers all of the major elements of the book, such as the plot, characters, and setting.

Writing Your Book Report

• For example, a sentence summary might state, “This book is about the main character’s journey to Africa and what she learns on her travels.”
• Don’t take up too much space with your introduction. In general, an introduction should be 3-6 sentences long, though in rare cases, they may be longer or shorter.

• Use vivid language when you can and include plenty of details. For example, you might write, “The farm was surrounded by rolling hills.”

• For instance, if the main character moves to Africa, you might describe what happens before the move, how the move goes, and how they settle in once they arrive.

• For example, you might write that the main character is “a middle-aged woman who enjoys the finer things in life, such as designer clothes.” Then, connect this description to the plot summary by describing how her views change after her travels, if they do.
• Expect to introduce the characters in the same sentences and paragraphs as the plot introduction.

• You might write, “The author argues that travel gives you a new perspective. That is why her main characters all seem happier and more grounded after visiting new places.”
• For fiction, determine if the author is using the story to pass along a certain moral or lesson. For example, a book about an underdog athlete could encourage readers to take chances to pursue their dreams.

• For example, an author who uses lots of slang terms is probably going for a hip, approachable style.

• Some teachers require, or strongly suggest, that you include the author’s name and the book title in your concluding paragraph.
• When writing a conclusion , don’t introduce any new thoughts. Any important points should be made in your body paragraphs. Save the space for your recap.

Reviewing and Revising Your Book Report

• Before you submit your paper, make sure that you’ve spelled the author’s name and any character names correctly.
• Don’t trust your computer’s spell check to catch all the errors for you. Spell check can be helpful, but it isn’t perfect and can make mistakes.

• If you’re nervous about asking, try saying something like “It would be great if you could go over my book report and make sure that it reads smoothly.”
• Remember, no one’s first draft is perfect, so don’t get upset if someone suggests you do something differently. They want to help make your report the best it can be, so don’t take constructive criticism personally.

• For example, double-check that you are using the correct font, font size, and margins.
• Once you've finished proofreading, revising, and checking that you've addressed all the requirements, you're ready to submit your book report!

• Even though your book report is your own work, avoid using “I” too much. It can make your writing feel choppy. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• It might be tempting to watch the movie or read the online notes instead of reading the book. Resist this urge! Your teacher will be able to tell the difference. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• Calm down and walk around if you get too frustrated while writing. If you write a book report while angry, you're more likely to misspell things!
• Choose a unique book. Harry Potter or Percy Jackson is an absolute no. Everyone chooses those. Try something different!
• Write when anything comes to mind! You don't want to lose your ideas!

• Give yourself plenty of time to write your report. Don’t wait until the last minute or you may feel rushed. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Stealing or using another person’s work is considered plagiarism and academic dishonesty. Make sure that the work you submit is all your own. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.aresearchguide.com/write-book-report.html
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 July 2020.
• ↑ https://grammark.org/how-to-write-a-book-report/
• ↑ https://takelessons.com/blog/steps-to-writing-a-book-report
• ↑ https://www.infoplease.com/homework-help/homework-center-writing-book-report
• ↑ https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-setting
• ↑ https://www.tcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/archive/writing-center-handouts/essay-types-plot-summary.pdf
• ↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

About This Article

To write a book report, start by introducing the author and the name of the book and then briefly summarizing the story. Next, discuss the main themes and point out what you think the author is trying to suggest to the reader. Finally, write about the author’s style of writing, paying particular attention to word choice and the overall tone of the book. For tips on editing and polishing your paper before turning it in, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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33 Free Book Report Forms and Templates for Kids

Published: April 11, 2019

Contributor: Annette Breedlove

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my disclosure for more info.

I loved writing book reports growing up. My kids, however, do not share the same sentiment. They love to read books and retell the stories to me, but they have a disconnect when it comes to putting it down on paper. That’s why I love using a free book report template to give them a little extra help. 

Fun Book Report Ideas

There are many different ways children can share about a book they read other than writing about it. Check out all of these fun ideas:

• Act it out. Young students and even older students may enjoy acting out a story that they read in lieu of writing about it. 
• Make a 3D diorama . This is a great way for students who like to work with their hands and create visuals.
• Draw it out on a poster . For young kids who don’t have strong writing skills yet, drawing out what they read is a great option.
• Make a comic book with a free comic book template we have included below. 
• Oral narration . Narrating back a brief summary of the book  they read is another alternative to writing a book report. You can see if your children comprehended what they read or at least got the main points of the story by asking them basic questions about the book.

Types of Book Reports

If you prefer using book reports, they come in a variety of types and styles. You can write plain-Jane ones or get a little more creative, like the comic strip option below for a different way to format a book report. Whichever you choose, having the option to use a book report template can be helpful for kids. 

While I enjoy book reports and see their value, I much prefer my kids enjoy reading a lot of books and sharing, over the finer points of proper form. So if we can use a simple book report template to keep them excited about reading and not dread the reports, I call that a win-win.

Mix it up with the different types of book reports that you assign to your children. Keep it fun and engaging and they will want to read more books and tell everyone about what they have read. 

Using Book Report Templates

As with anything we print out for school, I like to find cute printables with book report designs and age-appropriate graphics. This is especially for my middle school-aged daughter, who thinks some of the free worksheets I find are too childish.

Using a book report template for 3rd grade might look a little different than what I’d want to use for 7th grade. A pdf book report template for high school students definitely needs to be less kid-friendly and more informative.

There are simple book report templates for beginning writers and more advanced ones. The options are endless when it comes to choosing a book report template for your homeschool children.

Printable Book Report Forms

Whether you are looking for a short book report template or one for high school, book report templates will help students get their thoughts on paper. They will learn to organize their thoughts so that their finished book report project is a success!

Book report templates can encourage all the readers in your homeschool to crank out an organized, thorough book report that they are proud of! Once you select a free template, you can get started. Let your children choose one of their favorite books for their first report as it will help to keep them engaged.

How to Use a Book Report Template

When you are looking for the perfect book report template, keep in mind the age of your child. Some one-page forms are perfect for young children and beginning readers with boxes to draw, lines to write down main characters, setting, the plot, etc.

When you have a high school student needing to write a paper or a book report, you obviously need something more in-depth. A book report template can help them get their ideas on paper well enough to organize thoughts and personal opinions for an essay, or even a research paper. 

The key point of using worksheets for book reports is to have an easy way to get thoughts on paper. A book report template can help your student stay organized so they are able to draft a well-written paper. These types of graphic organizers make book reports a breeze!

What’s included in a book report?

• A good book report will consist of the book title, author’s name, main idea, main theme, plot points and important details.
• It will explain the narrative and setting, and cover the main elements of the story as well as describe important characters of the book.
• You’ll also want to include details on the time period, major conflicts and the book details, or rather a plot summary of the book.
• Don’t forget to include unusual facts and key elements that stand out. 

Character Description

Besides adding basic details about the key characters in the book, it’s a good idea to include character details. You will want to include details such as; appearance, interests, and list out some adjectives that describe characters on the book report form . 

Analyze what your character looks like so the reader of the book report gets a vivid description of the character. What color is their hair and skin? What is their clothing style like? Do they have a best friend or an animal that is constantly with them?

Is the character an animal? If so, what type of animal are they and what do they look like?

Character Development

Characters develop on in the story as you read about them. Make sure to make note of positive and negative character traits and how those change throughout the plot. Is there a hidden message or reason why the character is behaving the way that they are?

Make notes of how your character has changed and why you think they changed and the reasons for the actions that they took. You can take it a step further and explain how their actions either harmed or helped the story to move along.

Printable Book Report Templates and Forms

We’ve searched the internet to compile this  HSG FREE Resource Roundup  list for you. But if you  need or want something quickly , we recommend our DIY Book Report.

Scroll to the bottom of this post to find out how to get your FREE copy of our DIY Book Report today.

DIY Book Report Kit {works with ANY book} This printable book report template is more like a graphic organizer , in my opinion. You can print several different template pages to organize different aspects of the book so you can create a great book report. 

Free Book Report Template for Elementary Students Get your 1st -4th graders writing book reports with ease with these pdf book report pages.

Book Review Templates This cute pack of 5 different book report template pages would be perfect for early learners who know how to write . 

Printable Book Report Form I like this simple book report template that’s perfect for a new reader. The free printable book report template is organized and will prompt your kids to be creative. 

Elementary Book Reports Made Easy An easy one-page pdf download of a book report worksheet that would be good for elementary students.

Printable Book Report Forms (Non-Fiction, Fiction, Biography, Mystery & Fable) You have lots of different options for book report templates. Whether or not you need a book report form for a biography, non-fiction resource , or even a fable, there are several  different pdf templates to choose from. There are also multiple book report poster forms for those kids who prefer to draw.

7 Different Versions of Book Report – If you are looking for different versions for different age levels or grades then these reports are worth reviewing.

Easy Book Report – This features an easy form for younger students as well as outline form for older students.

Book Report Templates for Younger Students

There are different styles of book report templates that you will want to focus on for younger students. A book report template that you use with your middle school aged child will be too difficult for beginning writers.

You will want to look for a book report format with dashed lines, boxes to draw a picture in, and more. 

My Book Report Worksheets These book report worksheets are suitable for children in kindergarten or first grade. 

Comic Strip Book Reports If you have a reluctant writer , or a comic book lover, these free printable comic strip book report templates will likely make a book report less dreaded!

Reading Logs and Bookmarks

Reading Log and Book Report Templates If you are on the hunt for cute reading log printables, these are perfect for elementary students. There are a few different templates that offer options to rate the book and write a review. Using a creative book report template like this might take the sting out of writing book reports for reluctant writers. 

Free Reading Log and Book Report Forms   My Joy-Filled Life has a 2-page book report template and a printable reading log that you can slip into your homeschool binder . 

Free Reading Logs, Bookmarks and Charts – Encourage your readers with fun and colorful bookmarks and charts that they can use to track their reading time as well as the books they have read. Free Instant Download included!

Book Report Template

Book reports don’t have to be boring or something that your children dread. They may be overwhelmed because it is a new thing that they have never done before and may need just a little guidance to get started.

Our FREE DIY Book Report template pack includes four pages of graphic organizers, question prompts, illustration boxes, and more. It is a great start to guiding your children on how to write a book report in a non-threatening way. 

In Conclusion

The body of the book report should include the title, the author of the book, characters, setting, major conflicts, direct quotes, and plot. The conclusion can include a personal opinion. Book reports are a fun way to develop critical thinking skills and teach students how to gather information to format into a writing assignment.

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Annette Breedlove

Annette has been married to her husband and best friend since 2003. Together they are raising their six children to follow the Lord’s will, no matter what. Annette longs for the day when she will meet her angel babies who have entered heaven before her. She enjoys creating UNIT STUDIES and FREE PRINTABLES for homeschool families. You can follow her crazy life at In All You Do where she blogs about homeschooling, homemaking and marriage while trying to maintain her sanity. She is also the owner of Thrifty Homeschoolers where she shares her tips on homeschooling without breaking the bank.

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