What Makes A First-Class RAP Report For Oxford Brookes University?

Are you seeking the BSc (Hons) degree in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University (OBU)? If so, then the Research and Analysis Project (RAP) is your final and most critical step. It is your chance to showcase your academic, analytical, and reflective abilities. You can either get an OBU rap report service from professionals to successfully submit a first-class RAP report, or you will have to requirements of the given university in depth to create one. 

If you are not going for the option of getting professional assignment help, then it is necessary for you to take guidance from experts in the field. The following post is one such guide from the experts themselves that will help you in the creation of a top-quality RAP in simple and practical terms. 

Understanding The RAP Structure

It is important to understand the basic structure of the RAP before you begin to create the project. It has three components:

• Research Report (7,500 words) = where you are meant to explore a business or accounting topic in detail
• Skills and Learning Statement (2,000 words) = where you need to reflect on the learning and personal growth you gained during the process
• PowerPoint Presentation = where you will have to summarise your research findings for your mentor

Oxford Brookes University assesses your RAP based on clear criteria, including research approach, analysis, application of theories, evaluation, structure, referencing, and reflection. Your goal is to address each of these areas thoroughly and thoughtfully.

Selecting the Right Topic and Organisation

The first step to an effective OBU dissertation tips is to choose one topic from the list of 20 approved by OBU. Some popular options include financial analysis, corporate governance, and business strategy. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you to make the writing easier and more enjoyable. After that, select an organisation to study. Ideally, it should be:

• Data-rich.
• Relevant to your topic.
• Familiar or accessible to you.

Setting Clear Research Objectives and Questions

A weak objective leads to a weak RAP. Start by framing 2 to 3 research objectives that are:

• Specific and focused.
• Related to your chosen topic and organisation.
• Measurable and achievable.

Good research questions guide your entire report, so spend time getting them right.

Using Reliable and Appropriate Information Sources

OBU places great importance on the quality of your data and sources. You should use:

• Company annual reports.
• Stock exchange filings.
• Industry publications.
• News articles and analyst reports.

Avoid blogs, Wikipedia, or forums as primary sources. Harvard referencing style must be followed. 

Applying the Right Accounting and Business Models

Your RAP must go beyond description; it should apply to relevant models or theories to interpret what is happening in the organisation. The term business model has recently entered discussions on how it might be possible to improve the information content of financial statements (Nielsen & Roslender, 2015). Use models where they naturally fit and explain their meaning. Don’t just drop in a model for formality; rather, show you understand its relevance and usefulness.

Analysis, Evaluation, and Critical Thinking

Did you know that approximately 65% of RAP failures result from poor evaluation and lack of independent thinking? (theresearchguardian, 2025) This is the heart of your RAP and where most students lose marks. Description of an annual report is not enough. You must:

• Analyse trends: What has changed? Why?
• Compare: Benchmark with competitors or industry averages.
• Evaluate: What are the reasons behind the trends? Are management strategies effective?
• Link back to your objectives, as every section should support your main questions

Critical thinking means questioning statements at every stage.

Clear and Coherent Structure

A first-class RAP is easy to read and logically organised. Use clear headings and subheadings for enhanced readability. A common structure includes:

• Introduction
• Research objectives and questions
• Information gathering and limitations
• Application of accounting/business models
• Analysis and evaluation
• Conclusions

Make sure your writing is professional without any slang and avoid overly complicated vocabulary.

Strong Skills and Learning Statement (SLS)

Many students underestimate the SLS, but it is equally important. You must answer the four specific questions set by OBU, focusing on:

Written and verbal communication skills.

Personal learning and development.

Time and project management.

Receiving and using feedback.

Don’t write general statements, as specificity makes your reflection genuine and effective.

Presentation and Professionalism

A first-class report must also look professional. Pay attention to:

• Consistent formatting: same font, spacing, and style throughout.
• Proper titles and numbered sections.
• Clear graphs, charts, and tables with proper labels and references.
• Correct grammar and spelling.
• A clear and concise PowerPoint summarising key findings

A presentation shows your seriousness. Irregular formatting can reduce the perceived quality of your work.

Follow Submission Guidelines and Deadlines

Every session has specific submission dates. Make sure you:

• Register your project online in advance.
• Attend all three mandatory mentor meetings.
• Have your mentor sign the RAP and SLS before submission.
• Submit all three parts (RAP, SLS, presentation) by the final deadline.

Missing deadlines or submitting incomplete files can lead to disqualification for that session.

Role of an OBU Registered Mentor

Your mentor is not just a formality; they are a major part of your RAP success. Their responsibilities include:

• Helping you refine your objectives and topic.
• Give feedback on your drafts.
• Ensuring academic integrity and proper referencing.
• Guiding you in your reflection for the SLS.

Choose a mentor you are comfortable with and communicate regularly. Treat their feedback seriously.

Common Mistakes That Lower Grades

To avoid losing marks, stay away from these common errors:

• Weak or vague research objectives.
• Purely descriptive writing with no evaluation.
• Misuse or non-use of models.
• Plagiarism or poor referencing.
• Poor grammar and lack of structure.
• Submitting incomplete work or missing deadlines.

Every section must meet academic expectations. Use the assessment criteria as a checklist before submitting.

Conclusion

A first-class RAP report for Oxford Brookes University requires planning, precision, and personal reflection. It is not just about showing what you have learned, it is about applying it thoughtfully and presenting it professionally. Focus on clear objectives, critical analysis, effective use of models, and genuine personal development. Achieving a first-class grade is absolutely possible with the right approach and support from your mentor. Put in the effort now, and it will pay off in both your academic and professional journey.

References

Nielsen, C., & Roslender, R. (2015, Sep). Enhancing financial reporting: The contribution of business models. The British Accounting Review, 47(3), 262-274.

theresearchguardian. (2025, April 8th). Guide For OBU RAP Submission In 2025 With Do’s And Don’ts. https://www.theresearchguardian.com/guide-for-obu-rap-submission-in-2025-with-dos-and-donts/.