Final answer:
In a report's introduction, you would find the purpose and scope, but unlike a proposal's introduction, it typically does not suggest a solution. A proposal's introduction includes a presentation of the solution as proposals aim to persuade readers to act on the issue at hand.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the introduction section of a report, one would typically find elements such as the purpose and scope of the report. Conversely, in a proposal's introduction, the reader expects to see not only the purpose and scope but also a preliminary presentation of the solution or solutions. This distinction is important because a report is usually a document that presents data, findings, and perhaps conclusions based on that information. A proposal, on the other hand, is designed to persuade and outline a course of action, therefore it provides a solution to a problem upfront.
The introduction section of a report sets the stage for the findings and data to follow and explains what the report will cover (scope) and why it was written (purpose). However, it typically does not include a solution as that is not the focus of a report. Reports may end with conclusions and recommendations, but these are not generally part of the introduction.
In contrast, the introduction of a proposal not only outlines what the document will cover and the reason for its creation but immediately introduces a potential solution or solutions. This is because the main objective of a proposal is to persuade stakeholders or decision-makers to act on the problem that the proposal addresses. It is the writer's job to engage the readers with the problem and propose a viable solution early on.