Executives read the first paragraph and the recommendation — rarely the whole report. Writing summaries, reports, and proposals that busy leaders actually approve means leading with the 'so what,' being ruthlessly brief, and making the decision easy. Here's how.
How to write an executive summary
State the situation, your recommendation, and the ask — in a few sentences, at the top. The summary should let a leader decide without reading the rest. Everything else is backup.
The 'so what' test
Structure a proposal that wins
Problem → recommendation → benefits → cost/risks → clear next step. Make saying yes the easy, obvious choice, and pre-empt the objections you know are coming.
Turn 20 pages into one
Most reports can be a page. Lead with the decision, support with the few facts that matter, and put the detail in an appendix for those who want it.
Frequently asked questions
How do I write an executive summary?
State the situation, your recommendation, and the ask in a few sentences at the top, so a leader can decide without reading the full document.
What is the 'so what' test?
Asking whether each section changes the reader's decision. If not, cut it or move it to an appendix.
How do I structure a winning proposal?
Problem, recommendation, benefits, costs/risks, and a clear next step — making yes the easy choice.
How do I shorten a long report?
Lead with the decision, keep only the facts that matter, and move detail to an appendix.
Can coaching help my reports?
Yes — we work on your real documents. Book a free 30-minute class.
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