An executive summary lets a busy leader grasp a whole report in a minute. Writing a good one is a high-value skill. Here's a template and how to use it.
Lead with the recommendation
Executives read the summary to decide. Open with your bottom line and recommendation, not a slow build-up. 'We recommend X' in the first line does most of the work.
Cover situation, findings, recommendation
Briefly: the situation (why this matters), the key findings (what you learned), and the recommendation (what to do). Three short parts, no more — everything else lives in the full report.
Make it stand alone
Frequently asked questions
How do I write an executive summary?
Lead with the recommendation, then cover the situation, findings, and recommendation briefly — keep it to one page that stands alone.
What goes in an executive summary?
The bottom-line recommendation, why it matters, key findings, and what to do.
When should I write it?
Last — once you know the full story — so it captures the real conclusion.
How can I improve my summaries?
Book a free 30-minute class to sharpen your writing 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.
Start with a free 30-minute class
See the Fast-Track Fluency Method™ in action and meet Digby in person. No risk, no obligation.
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