Which aspect of a report does proofreading primarily affect?

Proofreading primarily affects the credibility and professionalism of the report. When a report is proofread thoroughly, it ensures that any grammatical, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors are corrected. This attention to detail sends a message to the readers that the author is committed to high standards and values accurate communication. A polished report reflects well on both the author and the organization, fostering trust and authority in the information presented.

An unproofread report, by contrast, can contain errors that undermine the reader's confidence in the content and the author's expertise. Readers may perceive mistakes as carelessness or a lack of attention to detail, negatively impacting the report's overall credibility. Therefore, the proofreading process is crucial in enhancing the professionalism of the document, thereby making it more effective in achieving its intended purpose.