how to write an excutive summary

An executive summary previews the main points of an in-depth report; it's written for nontechnical people who don't have time to read the main report.




Steps:
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's no more than 1/10 the length of the main report.

2. List the main points the summary will cover, putting them in the order in which they appear in the main report.

3. Write a simple declarative sentence that states each of the main points.

4. Add supporting or explanatory sentences as needed, avoiding unnecessary technical material and jargon.

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 main report without missing the point.

6. Check for errors of style, spelling, grammar and punctuation. Ask a fellow writer to proofread and edit the document.

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 other nontechnical readers.


Tips:
Keep your main points in mind as you write the summary. You needn't include every point in the summary, but ensure that the major ideas are covered succinctly.