How_to_Write_an_Executive_Summary

How to Write an Executive Summary By eHow Business Editor Time to simplify that big report An executive summary previews the main points of an in-depth report; it is written for nontechnical people who don't have time to read the main report. The executive report contains enough information for a reader to get familiarized with what is discussed in the full report without having to read it. Here is how you write an executive report. Things You Will Need: • Thesauri • Dictionaries • Primary source of material – usually text if academic paper Step 1: Plan to create a summary each time you write a business report exceeding four pages. Write the summary after you write the main report, and make sure it is no more than 1/10 the length of the main report. Start the Executive Summary with a short purpose statement – why you wrote the report itself, and what will be addressed in the report. Finish with a summary and/or recommendations Step 2: List the main points the summary will cover in the same order they appear in the main report Step 3: Write simple declarative sentences for each of the main points. No personal pronouns used. Step 4: Add supporting or explanatory sentences as needed, avoiding jargon. (know your audience) Step 5: Read the summary slowly and critically, making sure it conveys your purpose, message and key recommendations. You want readers to be able to skim the summary without missing the point of the main report. Step 6: Check for errors of style, spelling, grammar and punctuation. Ask a fellow writer to proofread and edit the document. Cite or attribute all intellectual material used – no References page needed. Step 7: Ask a nontechnical person - for example, your parents or your spouse - to read the document. If it confuses or bores them, the summary probably will have the same effect on intended readers.