How to Write a Case Study
A case study should identify problems and offer solutions to the problems. The following stages guide the writing of the case study.
Preparation for the case
- Read and review the case exhaustively
- Establish a focus for the case study through identification of the problems, the reasons for their existence, and their impact on the organization
- Identify possible solutions while reading through the case
- Pick the best of your suggested solutions before drafting the case
Writing the case
After gathering the requisite information, the case draft should include the following.
Introduction
- Identifies and explicates the principal issues and problems
- Develop a thesis statement that summarizes the outcomes of the case in about two sentences
Background
- Provide the relevant background information and relevant issues of the case
- Demonstrate coherence in highlighting the problems
Alternatives
- Highlight the probable alternatives
- explain the reasons for their rejection and constraints in their implementation
Proposed solutions
- Identify and explain about two realistic solutions
- Explicate the reasons for the choice of the solution
- Provide evidence supporting the solution from class text, external research, and/or anecdotes
Recommendations
- Discuss the appropriate strategies for the implementation of the solution(s)
- Recommend further actions that could resolve the issues
After drafting the case study, it is appropriate to read through to identify inconsistencies in structure and content, as well as identify mistakes.
