When committees have been charged with responsibility for investigating or reporting on a matter, their reports should close with a _______________ pertaining to their recommendation(s).

• A. Formal resolution
• B. Brief update
• C. Closing note
• D. Motion to adopt

Answer: (A)

A formal resolution is the proper closing because it turns the committee’s recommendations into an actionable, authoritative decision. The report ends by presenting a specific language that the organization can adopt or reject, outlining exactly what action should be taken and by whom. This gives the recommendation real effect and a clear path for implementation, rather than leaving it as a suggestion. A closing note or brief update would be too informal and lacks the binding power to compel action. A motion to adopt is something that would be raised and decided at a meeting, not the concluding formal statement within the written report itself. Using a formal resolution keeps the process orderly and ensures everyone understands the exact action the organization is being asked to take.