Written reports should generally be: A. legally phrased. B. carefully outlined. C. technically phrased. D. short, concise and to the point

To determine the characteristics of written reports, let's analyze each option provided:

1. Legally phrased (A): While some reports, especially legal documents, may require precise legal language, not all reports need to adhere strictly to legal phrasing.

2. Carefully outlined (B): A well-structured outline is essential for clarity and organization in a report, making this a strong candidate.

3. Technically phrased (C): Depending on the audience and purpose of the report, technical language may be necessary, but it is not a universal requirement.

4. Short, concise, and to the point (D): The hallmark of effective writing is brevity and clarity. Being concise helps convey the message without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

Conclusion

While options B and D are especially relevant to most reports, the best choice considering general report-writing guidelines would be D. short, concise, and to the point as it encapsulates the essence of effective communication in written reports.