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An executive summary is a brief overview of a longer report or proposal that provides a sympathetic snapshot of the document’s main points. It is often used by executives who need to understand a situation quickly without going through the entire document.
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How to make an executive summary
Following key steps can help in creating an effective executive summary:
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Write the executive summary after the main report or document has been completed so that every important point can be included.
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Focus on the key points and condense massive information into easily digestible, brief points.
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Make the summary as engaging as possible to encourage further reading.
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Preserve accuracy of information while keeping the tone professional and clear.
How to use an executive summary template
A template for an executive summary can help to properly structure the document and ensure that all necessary points are covered. You carry the primary responsibility for content, but the template ensures all crucial areas are considered. Fill in the template with a succinct representation of your document’s key points and proofread carefully for errors before finalizing.
Executive summary FAQ
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How long should an executive summary be? An executive summary should generally range from a few paragraphs to a maximum of two pages. It’s key function is to summarize the larger document in a precise and engaging manner.
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Who is the target audience for an Executive Summary? The target audience for an executive summary is primarily decision-makers who don’t have the time or need to read the full document but require a clear understanding of the content.
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Should an executive summary include recommendations? Yes, if the main document contains recommendations, they should be briefly stated in the executive summary. However, detailed reasoning and analysis supporting these recommendations are typically left for the main document.
Author
Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.
