Writing theexecutive summary

Definition Not a product presentation A persuasive sales pitch Far more than an abstract which merely

presents the rest of the document (proposal).

A unique opportunity to convince the reader that your solution provides the best value and benefit.

Definition The more technical your proposal, the

more important the executive summary is likely to be. Unlike the abstract, the executive summary steers clear of technicalities to instead concentrate on substantiating the benefits for the customer.

Purpose Overview of the report’s essential

information Designed to be read by people who will

not have time to read the whole report or are deciding if this is necessary.

Say as much as possible in the fewest words possible.

Briefly outline The subject matter The background problem The scope The conclusion and recommendations Not just an outline of the points to be

covered in the report with no detail of the analysis that has taken place or conclusions that have been reached.

Final form Usually stands as an overview at the front

of the report but it is also designed to be read alone without the accompanying report (this would often occur in the workplace)

It should be self sufficient and understood in isolation.

Usually written last so that it accurately reflects the content of the report and is usually not more than a page.