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Executive Summaries: An Overview

As part of your coursework, you may be asked to write an executive summary, a business document that is intended to break a long, complex report into a more concise, readable format. The executive summary allows a reader—typically a business leader, CEO, or decision-maker—to efficiently review the main points of the report.

For example, a business professional might write a 35-page report and then create a single-page executive summary for their leader. The executive summary would contain important information from the larger report including findings, conclusions, recommendations, or other major points. This would allow the leader to identify essential information without reading the longer document.

How to Write an Executive Summary

Step 1

Complete a full-length report first.

You can only write an executive summary after you’ve completed the full report.

Step 2

Begin with a brief introduction paragraph.

The introduction should generally include a short overview of the purpose of the report. (e.g., What problem did you address in the report?)  

Step 3

Address the main points of the report.

Using level headings, list all the major points from the longer report (e.g., Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations). Be sure to list the points in the same order that they occur in the original report. Then, write a concise paragraph under each level heading, focusing on creating a short summary of the original content.

Step 4

End with a short conclusion paragraph.

In the conclusion paragraph, restate your main ideas, highlight how the findings should impact decision-making, and/or emphasize a plan of action.  

Quick Tips

Although there are no standard guidelines for writing or formatting an executive summary, consider a few tips when creating this type of document for your coursework:

  • Use clear, concise, and formal language.
  • Ensure that your executive summary is shorter than the original report from which it was adapted (several paragraphs rather than several pages).
  • Adhere to APA formatting and style guidelines when writing an executive summary for a Walden course.
  • Be sure to review your instructor’s specific guidelines for length, style, and/or content.

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