Anna University Project Report Preparation Guidelines 2026
Anna University has prescribed a standardized format for project reports, ensuring uniformity across departments and affiliated institutions. This article provides a detailed explanation of the official structure, formatting rules, and practical tips to help students create reports that meet institutional expectations.
Arrangement of Contents
A project report should follow a clear and logical sequence. The university recommends the following order:
- Cover Page & Title Page
- Bonafide Certificate
- Abstract
- Table of Contents
- List of Tables
- List of Figures
- List of Symbols, Abbreviations, and Nomenclature
- Chapters (Main Content)
- Appendices
- References
Tables and figures must be inserted at appropriate places within the report rather than grouped separately at the end. This approach enhances readability and helps evaluators connect data directly with the discussion.
Page Dimensions and Binding
- Page Size: A4 (210 x 297 mm)
- Binding: Flexible cover made of thick white art paper
- Printing: Black ink, uniform style
- Cover Design: Identical text format for all students, printed in black letters
These specifications ensure that every project report has a professional appearance suitable for library archiving and examiner review.
Preparation Format
Cover Page & Title Page
- The cover page should follow the model provided in Appendix 1.
- It must clearly state the project title, student details, department, and university name.
Bonafide Certificate
- Should be typed in Times New Roman, size 14, with double line spacing.
- Must include the supervisor’s signature, name, and academic designation.
- The template is provided in Appendix 2.
Abstract
- A concise summary (300–500 words) of the project objectives, methodology, and key results.
- Should be placed immediately after the certificate.
Chapters
- The main body should be divided into logical chapters.
- Each chapter should begin on a new page.
- Use numbering (e.g., 1.1, 1.2) for subsections.
Typing Instructions
To maintain consistency across reports, Anna University prescribes the following rules:
- Font Style: Times New Roman
- Font Size: 14 for text, 16 for headings
- Spacing: 1.5 line spacing for body text
- Printing: Clear black impression only
- Margins: Standard A4 page margins (Top: 1.5″, Bottom: 1.25″, Left: 1.5″, Right: 1.0″)
These guidelines help students produce reports that are easy to read and evaluate.
References
The list of references is an essential academic requirement. It must be:
- Typed four spaces below the heading “REFERENCES”
- Single-spaced and left-justified
- Arranged alphabetically by the surname of the first author
- Formatted consistently (journal articles, books, and conference papers should follow the same style)
Example References
- Ariponnammal, S. & Natarajan, S. (1994). Transport Phonomena of Sm Sel – X Asx. Pramana – Journal of Physics, 42(1), 421–425.
- Barnard, R.W. & Kellogg, C. (1980). Applications of Convolution Operators to Problems in Univalent Function Theory. Michigan Math Journal, 27, 81–94.
Shin, K.G. & McKay, N.D. (1984). Open Loop Minimum Time Control of Mechanical Manipulations and Its Applications. Proceedings of the American Control Conference, San Diego, CA, 1231–1236.
Tables and Figures
- Tables: Numerical data presented within the main content or appendices.
- Figures: Charts, graphs, maps, photographs, and diagrams.
- Each table or figure must be numbered sequentially (e.g., Table 1.1, Figure 2.3).
- Titles should be placed above tables and below figures.
Project Report Essentials
| Section | Key Requirements | Formatting Style |
| Cover Page & Title Page | Title, student info, supervisor, department | As per Appendix model |
| Bonafide Certificate | Supervisor’s signature, designation | Times New Roman, size 14, double spacing |
| Abstract | 300–500 words summary | Concise, new page |
| Chapters | Logical divisions, subsections | Numbered headings |
| References | Alphabetical order, consistent style | Single-spaced, left-justified |
List of Symbols, Abbreviations, and Nomenclature
In technical project reports, clarity is essential. All symbols, abbreviations, and units must be compiled in a separate section before the main chapters. For example:
- Abbreviations like AI (Artificial Intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), or CAD (Computer-Aided Design) should be defined at first use and then listed alphabetically in this section.
- Symbols such as λ (wavelength) or ρ (density) must include proper definitions and SI units.
This section helps readers, examiners, and external reviewers interpret technical material without confusion.
Appendices
The appendices serve as a repository for supporting information that would otherwise disrupt the flow of the main text. This may include:
- Raw experimental data
- Computer code snippets
- Extended mathematical derivations
- Survey forms or questionnaires
Students are advised to number appendices sequentially (Appendix A, B, etc.), ensuring that they are referenced appropriately in the chapters.
References: Academic Integrity
Referencing is not only a formatting requirement but also a matter of academic integrity. Proper citations demonstrate respect for intellectual property and strengthen the credibility of the report.
Anna University emphasizes that students must avoid plagiarism. Any copied material should be properly cited using a consistent style. Examiners often cross-check references to ensure authenticity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Formatting Rules: Submitting reports with inconsistent fonts, margins, or spacing creates a negative impression.
- Weak Abstracts: Many students write abstracts that are too general. The abstract should be specific, measurable, and highlight the core outcomes.
- Incomplete References: Missing years, journal names, or page numbers reduces academic credibility.
- Improper Use of Figures: Figures without captions, numbers, or source credits can lead to deduction of marks.
Additional Guidelines for Report Submission
- Deadlines: Reports must be submitted on or before the official deadline announced by departments. Late submissions may not be accepted.
- Soft Copy Requirements: In many departments, students are required to submit a PDF copy along with the bound hard copy for archiving.
- Supervisor Review: Before submission, the report must be reviewed and approved by the project supervisor.
Originality Certificate: Some departments may require a plagiarism report to confirm originality.
Why Standardization Matters
Why CSE Graduates Excel
Graduates from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) अक्सर खुद को industry-ready पाते हैं. The combination of labs, research, और internships builds both confidence और technical competence.
Consider this: जबकि कई universities सिर्फ theory पर ध्यान देती हैं, Anna University ensures कि students modern software stacks के साथ काम करें — Linux, Python, Hadoop, Android Studio, Unity for AR/VR, और cloud simulation platforms. यह practical exposure वही skills देता है जो IT firms expect करती हैं.यही वजह है कि companies जैसे TCS, Infosys, और Accenture consistently recruit करते हैं from Guindy Engineering College (CEG) और MIT Campus — proving कि Anna University graduates industry में हमेशा एक कदम आगे रहते हैं.