need for executive summary in a research report

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An executive summary is a thorough overview of a research report, policy paper, or other type of document that synthesizes key points for its readers, saving them time and preparing them to understand the study's overall content. It is a separate, stand-alone document of sufficient detail and clarity to ensure that the reader can completely understand the contents of the main research study. An executive summary can be anywhere from 1-10 pages long depending on the length of the report being summarized, or it can be the summary of more than one document [e.g., papers submitted for a group project].

Bailey, Edward, P. The Plain English Approach to Business Writing . (New York: Oxford University Press, 1997), p. 73-80 Todorovic, Zelimir William and Marietta Wolczacka Frye. “Writing Effective Executive Summaries: An Interdisciplinary Examination.” In United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Conference Proceedings . (Decatur, IL: United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2009): pp. 662-691.

Importance of a Good Executive Summary

Although an executive summary is similar to an abstract in that they both summarize the contents of a research study, there are several key differences. With research abstracts, the author's recommendations are rarely included, or if they are, they are implicit rather than explicit. Recommendations are generally not stated in abstracts because scholars operate in a discursive environment, where debates, discussions, and dialogs are meant to precede the implementation of any new research findings. The conceptual nature of much academic writing also means that recommendations arising from the findings are distributed widely and not easily or usefully encapsulated. Executive summaries are used mainly when a research paper has been developed for an organizational partner, funding entity, or other external group that participated in the research or represents the targeted audience of the paper's findings . In such cases, the report and executive summary are often written for an audience outside of academe, while abstracts are written for the academic community. Professors, therefore, assign the writing of executive summaries so students can practice synthesizing and writing about the contents of comprehensive research studies for external stakeholder groups, such as, business leaders, policy makers, activists, or any other group, organization, or individual that may benefit from reading the full report.

When preparing to write, keep in mind that:

• An executive summary is not an abstract.
• An executive summary is not an introduction.
• An executive summary is not a preface [ i.e., focused only on the subject, scope, or aims of the paper]
• An executive summary is not a collection of highlights.

In short, an executive summary serves two purposes. It includes all the information necessary for the reader to understand and contemplate what is discussed and recommended in the full report without having to read it. At the same time, it also presents a compelling narrative aimed at encouraging the reader to read the entire report.

Christensen, Jay. Executive Summaries Complete The Report. California State University Northridge; Clayton, John. "Writing an Executive Summary that Means Business." Harvard Management Communication Letter (July 2003): 2-4; Keller, Chuck. "Stay Healthy with a Winning Executive Summary." Technical Communication 41 (1994): 511-517; Murphy, Herta A., Herbert W. Hildebrandt, and Jane P. Thomas. Effective Business Communications . New York: McGraw-Hill, 1997; Vassallo, Philip. "Executive Summaries: Where Less Really is More." ETC.: A Review of General Semantics 60 (Spring 2003): 83-90 ; Writing an Executive Summary. Writing Center. University of Arizona Global Campus.

Structure and Writing Style

Writing an Executive Summary

Read the Entire Document Whether you are asked to write your own executive summary or you are assigned to write an executive summary of a research report, it is important that you read the entire study thoroughly from start to finish before you begin to write the executive summary. Take notes as you go along, highlighting important statements of fact, key findings, and recommended courses of action. This will better prepare you for how to organize and summarize the study. Remember this is not an abstract of 300 words or less but, essentially, a mini-paper of the paper, with a focus on recommendations.

Isolate the Major Points Within the Original Document Choose which parts of the document are the most important to those who will read it. These points must be included within the executive summary in order to provide a thorough and complete explanation of what the document is trying to convey.

Separate the Main Sections Closely examine each section of the original document and discern the main differences in each. After you have a firm understanding about what each section offers in respect to the other sections, write a few sentences for each section describing the main ideas. Although the format may vary, the main sections of an executive summary should include the following:

• An opening statement, with brief background information,
• The purpose of research study,
• Method of data gathering and analysis,
• Overview of findings, and,
• A description of each recommendation, accompanied by a justification. Note that the recommendations are sometimes quoted verbatim from the research study.

Combine the Information Use the information gathered to combine them into an executive summary that is no longer than 10% of the original document. Be concise! The purpose is to provide a brief explanation of the entire document with a focus on the recommendations that have emerged from the research. How you word this will differ depending on your audience and what they care about most. If necessary, selectively incorporate bullet points for emphasis and brevity. Re-read your Executive Summary After you've completed your executive summary, let it sit for a while before coming back to re-read it. Check to make sure that the summary can stand alone as a separate document from the full research study. By taking some time before re-reading it, you allow yourself to see the summary with fresh, unbiased eyes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Length of the Executive Summary As a general rule, the correct length of an executive summary is that it meets the criteria of no more pages than 10% of the number of pages in the original document, with an upper limit of no more than ten pages [i.e., ten pages for a 100 page document]. This requirement keeps the document short enough to be read by your audience, but long enough to allow the reader to have a complete, stand-alone understanding of the study. Cutting and Pasting With the exception of specific recommendations made in the study, do not simply cut and paste whole sections of the original document into the executive summary. You should paraphrase information from the longer document. Avoid taking up space with excessive subtitles and lists, unless they are absolutely necessary for the reader to have a complete understanding of the original document. Consider the Audience Although unlikely to be required by your professor, there is the possibility that more than one executive summary will have to be written for a given document [e.g., one for policy-makers, one for private industry, one for philanthropists]. This may only necessitate the rewriting of the introduction and conclusion, but it could require rewriting the entire summary in order to fit the needs of the reader. If necessary, be sure to consider the types of audiences who may benefit from your study and make adjustments accordingly. Clarity in Writing One of the biggest mistakes you can make is related to the clarity of your executive summary. Always note that your audience [or audiences] are likely seeing your research study for the first time. The best way to avoid a disorganized or cluttered executive summary is to write it after the study is completed. Always follow the same strategies for proofreading that you would for any research paper. Use Strong and Positive Language Don’t weaken your executive summary with passive, imprecise language. The executive summary is a stand-alone document intended to convince the reader to make a decision concerning whether to implement the recommendations you make. Once convinced, it is assumed that the full document will provide the details needed to implement the recommendations. Although you should resist the temptation to pad your summary with pleas or biased statements, do pay particular attention to ensuring that a sense of urgency is created in the implications, recommendations, and conclusions presented in the executive summary. Be sure to target readers who are likely to implement the recommendations.

Bailey, Edward, P. The Plain English Approach to Business Writing . (New York: Oxford University Press, 1997), p. 73-80; Christensen, Jay. Executive Summaries Complete The Report. California State University Northridge; Executive Summaries. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Clayton, John. "Writing an Executive Summary That Means Business." Harvard Management Communication Letter , 2003; Executive Summary. University Writing Center. Texas A&M University;  Green, Duncan. Writing an Executive Summary.   Oxfam’s Research Guidelines series ; Guidelines for Writing an Executive Summary. Astia.org; Markowitz, Eric. How to Write an Executive Summary. Inc. Magazine, September, 15, 2010; Kawaski, Guy. The Art of the Executive Summary. "How to Change the World" blog; Keller, Chuck. "Stay Healthy with a Winning Executive Summary." Technical Communication 41 (1994): 511-517; The Report Abstract and Executive Summary. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing Executive Summaries. Effective Writing Center. University of Maryland; Kolin, Philip. Successful Writing at Work . 10th edition. (Boston, MA: Cengage Learning, 2013), p. 435-437; Moral, Mary. "Writing Recommendations and Executive Summaries." Keeping Good Companies 64 (June 2012): 274-278; Todorovic, Zelimir William and Marietta Wolczacka Frye. “Writing Effective Executive Summaries: An Interdisciplinary Examination.” In United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Conference Proceedings . (Decatur, IL: United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2009): pp. 662-691.

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Research executive summary: examples and best practices.

Home » Research Executive Summary: Examples and Best Practices

Executive summary tips are crucial for crafting impactful research reports. These concise overviews serve as the gateway to your findings, capturing the essence of your work in a digestible format. Mastering the art of executive summaries can significantly enhance the reach and influence of your research.

In today's fast-paced world, decision-makers often rely on these summaries to quickly grasp key insights. By honing your skills in creating compelling executive summaries, you can effectively communicate complex ideas and ensure your research resonates with its intended audience. This guide will explore best practices and examples to help you elevate your executive summary writing skills.

Importance of a Well-Crafted Executive Summary

A well-crafted executive summary serves as the gateway to your research findings, offering a concise yet comprehensive overview of your work. This crucial component distills complex information into a digestible format, allowing busy decision-makers to grasp key points quickly. An effective summary highlights the most significant aspects of your research, including objectives, methodologies, and critical outcomes.

To create an impactful executive summary, focus on clarity and brevity. Start by clearly stating the purpose of your research and its relevance to the target audience. Then, outline your main findings and their implications, emphasizing how they address the initial research questions. Conclude with actionable recommendations based on your insights, providing a clear path forward for stakeholders. Remember, a well-written executive summary can make the difference between your research being acted upon or overlooked, so invest time in refining this essential element of your report .

Executive Summary Tips: Key Benefits for Stakeholders

Executive summaries serve as powerful tools for stakeholders, offering concise insights into complex research findings. By distilling key information, these summaries enable decision-makers to grasp essential points quickly and efficiently. One primary benefit is time-saving, allowing busy executives to absorb critical data without sifting through lengthy reports.

Moreover, well-crafted executive summaries facilitate better decision-making by highlighting actionable insights. They provide a clear overview of research objectives, methodologies, and outcomes, empowering stakeholders to make informed choices. Additionally, these summaries foster improved communication among team members, ensuring everyone is aligned on crucial findings and recommendations. By presenting a snapshot of the research, executive summaries help stakeholders prioritize resources and focus on areas that require immediate attention, ultimately driving more effective strategic planning and implementation.

Enhancing Decision-Making with Concise Summaries

Crafting an effective executive summary is crucial for decision-makers who need quick access to key information. A well-structured summary distills complex research into actionable insights, saving time and facilitating informed choices. To create impactful summaries, focus on clarity, conciseness, and relevance.

Start by identifying the main objectives and findings of your research. Highlight critical data points and recommendations, ensuring they align with the intended audience's needs. Use clear, jargon-free language to explain complex concepts, and organize information logically. Include visual aids like charts or graphs to enhance understanding. Remember, the goal is to provide a comprehensive overview that enables swift decision-making without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

Crafting an Effective Research Executive Summary

Crafting an effective research executive summary requires a blend of concision and clarity. This crucial document distills complex findings into digestible insights for decision-makers. To create a compelling summary, start by identifying the key objectives and methodologies of your research. Then, highlight the most significant results and their implications for the business or project at hand.

Best practices for executive summaries include using clear, jargon-free language and organizing information in a logical flow. Consider incorporating visual elements like charts or graphs to illustrate key points quickly. Remember to tailor the content to your audience's needs and knowledge level. By following these executive summary tips, you'll ensure your research findings make a lasting impact and drive informed decision-making within your organization.

Research Executive Summary Tips: Essential Elements

Creating an effective executive summary for research reports is crucial for conveying key findings and recommendations succinctly. To craft a compelling summary, focus on distilling the most important information into a concise format. Begin by clearly stating the research objectives and methodology used. Then, highlight the main findings, emphasizing their significance and implications for the client's business.

Include actionable insights and recommendations, ensuring they are specific and aligned with the client's goals. Use visuals sparingly but effectively to illustrate key points or trends. Keep the language clear and jargon-free, making it accessible to all stakeholders. Remember to tailor the content to your audience, addressing their primary concerns and interests. By following these executive summary tips, you'll create a powerful tool that captures the essence of your research and drives decision-making.

Structuring Your Summary for Maximum Impact

Crafting an effective executive summary requires a strategic approach to structure and content. By following a template-style format, you can ensure your summary covers all essential topics while remaining concise and readable. Start by identifying the key themes from your research or interview guide, such as market trends, customer pain points, or product recommendations.

Next, organize these themes into distinct sections within your summary. For each section, provide a brief overview of the main findings, supported by relevant data or quotes. Use bullet points or short paragraphs to enhance readability. Remember to tailor the content to your audience, focusing on the information most relevant to their needs and decision-making processes. By structuring your executive summary in this way, you'll create a powerful tool that quickly conveys the most critical insights from your research.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

When crafting an executive summary, it's crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can diminish its effectiveness. One frequent mistake is information overload, where authors include too much detail, obscuring the main points. To prevent this, focus on distilling the most critical information and presenting it concisely.

Another pitfall is failing to tailor the summary to the intended audience. Different stakeholders may require different levels of detail or emphasis on specific aspects. To address this, research your audience beforehand and customize the content accordingly. Additionally, avoid using jargon or technical terms without explanation, as this can alienate readers unfamiliar with industry-specific language. Instead, opt for clear, accessible language that conveys your message effectively. By steering clear of these common mistakes and following best practices, you can create an executive summary that captures attention and delivers key insights efficiently.

Executive Summary Tips: Frequent Mistakes to Watch Out For

When crafting an executive summary, it's crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can undermine its effectiveness. One frequent mistake is information overload, where authors include too much detail, obscuring the main points. Remember, brevity is key – aim to distill complex information into concise, impactful statements.

Another error to watch out for is neglecting to tailor the summary to your audience. Different stakeholders have varying interests and levels of expertise, so customize your content accordingly. Additionally, many summaries fall short by failing to provide clear, actionable recommendations. Your executive summary should not only present findings but also offer strategic insights and next steps. By steering clear of these mistakes, you'll create a more compelling and useful executive summary that resonates with your readers.

Best Practices for Clear and Persuasive Summaries

Creating a clear and persuasive executive summary is crucial for effectively communicating research findings. To craft an impactful summary, start by distilling the main points of your research into concise, easy-to-understand statements. Focus on highlighting key insights, methodologies, and outcomes that are most relevant to your audience.

When writing your executive summary, use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Structure your content logically, presenting information in a flow that guides readers through your research journey. Include visual elements like charts or graphs to illustrate complex data points quickly. Remember to tailor your summary to your specific audience, emphasizing aspects that align with their interests and needs. By following these best practices, you'll create an executive summary that captures attention and conveys your research's value effectively.

Conclusion: Mastering Executive Summary Tips for Research

Mastering executive summary tips is crucial for researchers aiming to convey their findings effectively. As we've explored various strategies and best practices, it's clear that a well-crafted executive summary can significantly impact the reception of your research. By distilling complex information into concise, actionable insights, you empower decision-makers and stakeholders to grasp the essence of your work quickly.

Remember, the key to a compelling executive summary lies in its clarity, brevity, and relevance. Focus on highlighting the most critical aspects of your research, including methodology, key findings, and recommendations. As you refine your skills in creating these summaries, you'll find that they not only enhance the accessibility of your research but also increase its potential for real-world application and impact.

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The First Impression: Executive Summary In A Research Paper

Having trouble writing the executive summary for your research paper? Learn how to write it in a research paper with our step-by-step guide.

Do you think a scholar has the time to read all the content of your research paper? They will have infinite papers to check, so they definitely won’t read it thoroughly, so how do they know if it is worth reading or not? Now, you must’ve seen short summaries in front of every research paper; ever wondered what that is? 

Well, that is your first impression of the article and as the saying goes, “first impression is always the best impression”, it is important to make sure that the summary is catchy and perfect to grab the scholar’s attention. 

Those types of summaries are known as Executive Summaries and in this article, we are going to learn in-depth about the executive summary in a research paper, along with tips and guidelines for writing them.

What Is An Executive Summary In A Research Paper?

In a research paper, the executive summary serves as a condensed version of the entire paper. It provides a snapshot of the key elements and findings of the research, allowing readers to quickly grasp the purpose, methodology, and main outcomes without having to read the entire document.

Why Do We Compose An Executive Summary?

We compose an executive summary for several important reasons:

1. Decision-Making Support

Executives, stakeholders, or decision-makers rely on executive summaries to make informed decisions. By presenting key information clearly and concisely, an executive summary helps decision-makers understand the essence of the document and evaluate its significance and potential impact.

2. Accessible To A Wide Audience

Executive summaries are shared with diverse audiences, including those without specialized knowledge. By distilling complex information, executive summaries make the content more accessible to a broader range of readers.

3. Overview Of Research Or Project

An executive summary offers a high-level overview of the research or project, outlining objectives, methodology, and main findings. It provides a snapshot of the work, allowing readers to quickly assess its relevance and determine if they need to explore the full document. Also Read: How to Write a Summary of an Article

The Executive Summary Length And Placement

The length and placement of an executive summary can vary depending on specific requirements and guidelines. However, there are some general considerations to keep in mind:

• Length : Executive summaries are typically kept relatively short, ranging from a few paragraphs to a couple of pages. They aim to provide a concise overview of the main points and findings of the document.
• Placement : In most cases, the executive summary is placed at the beginning of the document, before the main body or introduction. This allows readers to quickly access the key information without having to go through the entire document. However, in some cases, it may be placed at the end, serving as a summary or recap of the main points for those who have already read the document.

It’s important to note that the length and placement of the executive summary can be influenced by specific guidelines or requirements set by the organization or publication. 

Structure Of An Executive Summary For A Research Paper

The structure of an executive summary for a research paper can vary slightly depending on the specific requirements and nature of the research. However, a commonly used structure includes the following key elements:

Introduction

Provide a brief introduction that sets the context for the research. Clearly state the purpose, objectives, and significance of the study.

Research Methodology

Summarize the research methodology used in the study. Briefly explain the data collection methods, sample size, research design, and any statistical analyses employed. This helps establish the credibility and reliability of the research.

Key Findings

Present the most significant findings of the research. Summarize the main results, trends, or patterns that emerged from the data analysis. Focus on the key outcomes that directly address the research objectives.

Conclude the executive summary by summarizing the main points and emphasizing the overall significance of the research. Restate the main findings and their implications in a concise manner. Also read our content about Thesis Conclusion: Making Your Research Paper Outstanding .

Executive Summary For A Research Paper Formatting

When formatting an executive summary for a research paper, it’s important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the target journal or publication. General formatting considerations to keep in mind:

• Title : Include a clear and descriptive title for the executive summary at the top of the page. It should reflect the content and focus of the research paper.
• Length : The length of the executive summary can vary, but it is typically recommended to be concise, ranging from a few paragraphs to a maximum of one or two pages. Adhere to any specified word count or page limit guidelines.
• Formatting Style: Follow the formatting style required by the target journal or publication. This may include font type, font size, line spacing, and margins. Typically, a professional and readable font such as Times New Roman or Arial with a standard font size of 12 points is used.
• Structure and Subheadings: Use clear and informative subheadings to structure the content of the executive summary. This helps guide the reader through the main sections, such as Introduction, Methodology, Key Findings, Implications, Recommendations, and Conclusion .
• Concise Writing: Write in a concise and focused manner, using clear and simple language. Avoid unnecessary technical jargon or complex explanations. Use bullet points or numbered lists to present key findings or recommendations, making them easy to read and comprehend.
• Proofreading and Editing: Before finalizing the executive summary, carefully proofread and edit the content for clarity, coherence, and grammatical correctness. Ensure that the summary is free from errors and presents a professional image.

The Executive Summary Mistakes To Avoid

When crafting an executive summary, it’s important to be mindful of certain mistakes that can diminish its effectiveness. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

Lack Of Clarity

Ensure that the executive summary is clear and concise. Avoid using jargon, complex language, or technical terms that may confuse readers. Aim for straightforward and accessible language that can be understood by a diverse audience.

Excessive Length

Remember that an executive summary is meant to be a condensed version of the main document. Avoid making it too long or including unnecessary details. Keep it concise and focused on the most important information.

Lack of Context

Provide sufficient context to help readers understand the research and its significance. Avoid jumping straight into the findings without setting the stage. Briefly explain the background, objectives, and methodology to provide a clear context for the research.

Inconsistent Tone

Maintain a consistent and professional tone throughout the executive summary. Avoid using overly casual language or an inconsistent writing style that may undermine the credibility of the research.

Missing Contact Information

Include relevant contact information, such as names, email addresses, or phone numbers, so that readers can reach out for further inquiries or discussions. This ensures that interested parties can easily connect with the authors.

Executive Summary Writing Tips And Recommendations

When writing an executive summary, consider the following tips and recommendations to ensure its effectiveness:

• Start Strong : Begin the executive summary with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. Clearly state the purpose, importance, and relevance of the research to engage the audience from the start.
• Be Succinct: Keep the executive summary concise and to the point. Focus on the most critical information and avoid unnecessary tangents or excessive details. Use clear and concise language to convey the key points effectively.
• Structure with Headings: Organize the executive summary with headings and subheadings to create a logical flow of information. This helps readers navigate the content and locate specific sections quickly.
• Maintain Consistency: Ensure that the executive summary aligns with the main document in terms of key points, language, and style. Avoid introducing new information or contradictory statements that may confuse the reader.
• Use Visuals Sparingly: Incorporate visuals such as charts, graphs, or diagrams if they significantly enhance the understanding of the research. Ensure they are clear, well-labeled, and easy to interpret.
• Seek Feedback: Consider sharing the executive summary with colleagues, mentors, or experts in the field for feedback and suggestions. Incorporate their insights to improve the clarity and effectiveness of the summary.

In conclusion, the executive summary plays a crucial role in research papers by providing a condensed yet comprehensive overview of the study’s main points and findings. It serves as a valuable tool for busy readers, decision-makers, and stakeholders who require a concise understanding of the research without delving into the full document.

Also Read: How to Write an Abstract for a Research Paper (Example and Tips)

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About Sowjanya Pedada

Sowjanya is a passionate writer and an avid reader. She holds MBA in Agribusiness Management and now is working as a content writer. She loves to play with words and hopes to make a difference in the world through her writings. Apart from writing, she is interested in reading fiction novels and doing craftwork. She also loves to travel and explore different cuisines and spend time with her family and friends.

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How To Write A High-Impact Executive Summary

By Derek Jansen | January 2018

In this post, I’ll deconstruct the often-misunderstood executive summary and show you how to develop a high-impact executive summary for your assignment, research report or even your dissertation or thesis.

So, what is an executive summary?

An executive summary (sometimes called an abstract ) is quite simply a summary of summaries. In other words, an executive summary provides a concise summary of each of your assignment or report chapters/sections . More specifically, it should communicate the key points/insights/findings/suggestions from the following chapters:

• Introduction
• Recommendations
• Implementation (if applicable)
• Reflection (if applicable)

I’ll discuss which key points from each section need to be addressed a bit later. On a separate note – if you’re writing an executive summary for a dissertation or thesis, all of the concepts described in this post will still apply to you, however, you’ll include an additional paragraph about your methodology, and you’ll likely spend more word count discussing your analysis findings.

The 4 Important Attributes Of An Exec Summary

Before I discuss what goes into the executive summary, let’s quickly look at 4 attributes that make for a strong executive summary:

#1 – It should be able to stand alone.

The executive summary should be able to stand independently as an informative document . In other words, the reader should be able to grasp your broad argument without having to read the full document. Further reading should be purely for attaining more detail. Simply put, the executive summary should be a “Mini-Me” of the assignment.

This independence means that anything you write in the executive summary will need to be re-stated in the body of your assignment. A common mistake that students make is to introduce key points in the executive summary and then not discuss them again in the document – accordingly, the marker must view the main document as missing these key points. Simply put – make sure you discuss key points in both the executive summary and the main body . It will feel repetitive at times – this is normal.

#2 – It should be written for the intelligent layman.

When crafting your executive summary, its useful to keep the intelligent layman front of mind. What I mean by this is that you should write your summary assuming that your reader (i.e. the marker) will be intelligent but won’t be familiar with your topic and/or industry. This means that you should explain any technical concepts, avoid jargon and explain acronyms before using them.

More broadly, you should aim to make your executive summary as easy to read and digest as possible. The easier you make it for the marker to understand your arguments, the easier it is for them to award you marks for good arguments. To improve the readability of your writing, use simple but professional language, keep your sentences short and to the point, and round numbers off as much as possible (for example, $6.5 million vs $6,543,632). Try the Hemingway App for real-time feedback and recommendations on your writing.

#3 – It should be concise.

Typically, your executive summary should be a one-pager (one and a half pages at worst). To summarise a 3000 – 5000-word document into one page is no easy task, so you’ll need to:

• Present only the most important information (key insights, recommendations, etc).
• Write concisely – i.e. with brevity and completeness.

To the first point, I’ll explain what the “most important” information is for each chapter shortly. To the second point (writing concisely), there are various ways to do this, including:

• Using simple, straightforward language.
• Using the active voice.
• Removing bloaty adverbs and adjectives.
• Reducing prepositional phrases.
• Avoiding noun strings.

Does this sound like gibberish to you? Don’t worry! The Writing Center at the University of Wisconson-Madison provides a practical guide to writing more concisely, which you can download here.

On a related note, you typically would not include headings, citations or bulleted/numbered lists in your executive summary. These visual components tend to use a lot of space, which comes at a premium, as you know.

#4 – It should be written last.

Given that your executive summary is a summary of summaries, it needs to be written last , only once you’ve identified all your key insights, recommendations and so on. This probably sounds obvious, but many students start writing the summary first (potentially because of its position in the document) and then end up re-writing it multiple times, or they don’t rewrite it and consequently end up with an executive summary which is misaligned with the main document.

Simply put, you should leave this section until everything else is completed. Once your core body content is completed, you should read through the entire document again and create a bullet-point list of all the key points . From this list, you should then craft your executive summary . The approach will also help you identify gaps, contradictions and misalignments in your main document.

So, what goes into an executive summary?

Right, let’s get into the meat of it and consider what exactly should go into your executive summary. As I’ve mentioned, you need to present only the absolutely key point points from each of your chapters, but what does this mean exactly?

Each chapter will typically take the form of 1 paragraph (with no headings) in your executive summary. So, 5 chapters means 5 paragraphs. Naturally, some will be longer than others (let this be informed by the mark allocation), but assuming one page contains 500 words, you’re aiming for roughly 100 words per paragraph (assuming a 5-paragraph structure). See why conciseness is key!

Now, let’s look at what the key points are for each chapter in the case of a typical MBA assignment or report. In the case of a dissertation or thesis, the paragraph structure would still mimic the chapter structure – you’d just have more chapters, and therefore, more paragraphs.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

This paragraph should cover the following points:

• A very brief explanation of the business (what does it do, for whom and where?).
• Clear identification and explanation of the problem or opportunity that will be the focus of the assignment/report.
• A clear statement of the purpose of the assignment (i.e. what research questions will you seek to answer?).
• Brief mention of what data sources were utilised (i.e. secondary research) and any fieldwork undertaken (i.e. primary research ).

In other words, your first paragraph should introduce the business, the problem/opportunity to be addressed, why it’s important, and how you approached your analysis. This paragraph should make it clear to the reader what the assignment is all about at a broad level. Here’s a practical example:

This assignment focuses on ABC Ltd, a XXX business based in XXX, which provides XXX to XXX customers. To date, the firm has relied almost exclusively on XXX marketing channel. Consequently, ABC Ltd has little understanding of consumer segments, wants, and needs. This marketing channel is now under regulatory threat due to XXX.  The core challenge, therefore, is that whilst ABC Ltd seeks to grow its market share, it has little understanding of its market characteristics or competitive set, and its sole marketing channel under regulatory threat. Accordingly, the objective of this assignment is XXX. The assignment draws on survey, interview, and industry data.

Paragraph 2: Analysis and findings

In this paragraph, you should discuss the following:

• What exactly did you analyse? For example, you might have analysed the macro context (i.e. PESTLE analysis), followed by the meso (i.e. competitor or industry analysis) and then the micro (i.e. internal organisational analysis).
• What were your key findings in relation to the purpose of the assignment? For example, you may have identified 4 potential causes of a problem and would then state them.

In other words, your second paragraph should concisely explain what you analysed and what your main findings were . An example of this:

Segmentation analysis, consisting of macro, industry and firm-level analyses, revealed a strong segmentation variable in the form of XXX, with distinct needs in each segment. Macro analysis revealed XXX, while industry and firm-level analyses suggested XXX. Subsequently, three potential target segments were established, namely XXX, XXX and XXX.  These were then evaluated using the Directional Policy Matrix, and the results indicated XXX.

From a presentation perspective, you might structure this section as:

• Analysis 1, findings from analysis 1.
• Analysis 2, findings from analysis 2.
• Analysis 3, findings from analysis 3.

Importantly, you should only discuss the findings that are directly linked to the research questions (i.e. the purpose of the assignment) – don’t digress into interesting but less relevant findings. Given that the analysis chapter typically counts for a large proportion of marks, you could viably write 2-3 paragraphs for this. Be guided by the mark allocation.

Lastly, you should ensure that the findings you present here align well with the recommendations you’ll make in the next paragraph. Think about what your recommendations are, and, if necessary, reverse engineer this paragraph to create a strong link and logical flow from analysis to recommendations.

Paragraph 3: Recommendations

With the key findings from your analysis presented in the preceding paragraph, you should now discuss the following:

• What are your key recommendations?
• How do these solve the problems you found in your analysis?
• Were there any further conclusions?

Simply put, this paragraph (or two) should present the main recommendations and justify their use (i.e. explain how they resolve the key issue). As mentioned before, it’s critically important that your recommendations tightly align with (and resolve) the key issues that you identified in the analysis. An example:

Based on the Directional Policy Matrix analysis, it is recommended that the firm target XXX segment, because of XXX. On this basis, a positioning of XXX is proposed, as this aligns with the segment’s key needs. Furthermore, a provisional high-level marketing mix is proposed. The key aspects of the marketing mix include XXX, XXX and XXX, as these align with the firm’s positioning of XXX. By adopting these recommendations, the key issue of XXX will be resolved.

Also, note that (typically) the tone changes from past to present tense when you get to the recommendations section.

Paragraph 4: Implementation

If your assignment brief requires an implementation/project plan-type section, this paragraph will typically include the following points:

• Time requirements (how long will it take?)
• People requirements (what skills are needed and where do you find them?)
• Money requirements (what budget is required?)
• How will the project or change be managed? (i.e. project management plan)
• What risks exist and how will these be managed?

Depending on what level of detail is required by your assignment brief, you may need to present more, less or other details in this section. As always, be guided by the assignment brief.

A practical example:

A high-level implementation plan is proposed, including a stakeholder analysis, project plan and business case. Resource requirements are presented, detailing XXX, XXX and XXX requirements. A risk analysis is presented, revealing key risks including XXX, XXX and XXX. Risk management solutions are proposed, including XXX and XXX.

Paragraph 5: Reflection

As with the implementation chapter, the need for a reflection chapter/section will vary between assignments and universities. If your assignment has this requirement, it’s typically good to cover the following points:

• What were your key learnings? What were your ah-ha moments?
• What has changed in the real world as a consequence of these learnings? I.e. how has your actual behaviour and approach to “X” changed, if any?
• What are the benefits and/or disadvantages of this change, if any?

This section is very personal, and so each person’s reflections will be different. Don’t take the above points as gospel.

Time to test it out.

Once you’ve written up your executive summary and feel confident that it’s in good shape, it’s time to test it out on an unsuspecting intelligent layman. This is a critically important step, since you, as the writer, are simply too close to the work to judge whether it all makes sense to a first-time reader. In fact, you are the least suitable person on the planet!

So, find someone who is not familiar with your assignment topic (and ideally, not familiar with your industry), and ask them to have a read through your executive summary. Friends and family will usually tell you its great, regardless of the quality, so you need to test them on their understanding. Do this by asking them to give the details back to you in their own words. Poke and prod – can they tell you what the key issues and recommendations were (in their own words!). You’ll quickly spot the gaps this way, and be able to flesh out any weak areas.

Wrapping up.

In this post, I’ve discussed how to write the all too often undercooked executive summary. I’ve discussed some important attributes of a strong executive summary, as well as the contents that typically go into it. To recap on the key points:

The key attributes of a high-impact executive summary:

• It should be able to stand alone.
• It should be written for the intelligent layman.
• It should be concise.
• It should be written last.

The key contents of a high-impact executive summary:

Each paragraph should cover a chapter from the document. For example, In the case of a typical assignment, it would be something like:

• Summary of the introduction chapter.
• Summary of the analysis chapter.
• Summary of the recommendations and/or conclusions chapter.
• Depending – summary of the implementation and reflection.

Lastly, don’t forget to test out your executive summary on an unsuspecting layman or two. This is probably the most important step of them all!

If you have any questions or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch here or leave a comment below.

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Thanks so much for your methodical process and explanation of Executive Summary. It is exactly what I was researching for.

Regards Saane

It’s a pleasure!

This was really helpful with how to structure my assignment.

Thank you so much for the step by step process. It’s so helpful for beginners like me.

Great! This post is very informative and gives clear guidance on to write an executive summary. Thanks very much for sharing this information, it’s very helpful.

Thanks for the feedback, Anna. Best of luck with your writing 🙂

Thank you for the great article, really helped explain what was needed.

Great insight and tips . Thanks

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Executive Summary: Research Guidelines for A+ Papers

• Icon Calendar 30 July 2024
• Icon Page 5955 words
• Icon Clock 27 min read

When people work on organizing their research papers, they need effective guidelines on how to write an executive summary. This article provides insights students should grasp to create high-standard texts, including defining what is an executive summary, its meaning, and its basic format and structure. About its structure and format, a particular guideline teaches students all the sections of an executive summary, such as introduction, purpose statement, methods, findings, recommendations, limitations, implementation, and conclusion elements, corresponding contents of each part, and how to write each element. Other insights include 20 tips for producing a high-standard executive summary, including 10 dos and 10 don’ts, what to include, and 10 common mistakes. Lastly, the article gives a sample outline template for writing a good executive summary and a practical example of this section of a research paper.

General Aspects

A habit of reading different types of papers is helpful to a student’s mental preparation for course assessments but, more importantly, to their intellectual development. Reading various types of essays, reports, and research papers also induces mental faculties of intellect, reason, imagination, and intuition, which are essential for academic discourse. Indeed, one can tell a writer who reads habitually by how they construct and defend arguments and ideas in their works. Basically, this guideline for writing an effective executive summary includes essential insights into what students should and should not do when writing this element. In principle, the three main elements of an executive summary are an introduction, key findings, and recommendations. A provided article also defines what is an executive summary and its meaning, outlines its format and distinctive features, shows how to write each part of this section of a research paper, explains concepts, and gives helpful tips for producing a high-standard document. In turn, this guideline gives a sample outline template of a project paper and an example of an executive summary, as well as what people can include and what they should avoid when organizing such an element.

What Is an Executive Summary and Its Purpose

According to its definition, an executive summary is a brief text that accounts for main points of a longer document, mainly a market study report, project plan, and business proposal. In this respect, such a text serves the same purpose as an abstract, the only difference being that it is not used in research papers (Thomas, 2022). Ideally, an abstract is a short and descriptive section of essential details of a research paper, such as background, methodology, results, and conclusion. In contrast, an executive summary means writing a comprehensive overview of a report, research proposal, or project that explains its main points, including recommendations (Rehart, 2021). As such, the main purpose of writing an executive summary is to highlight key points, findings, and recommendations without requiring a reader to read a full report. Practically, an abstract is between 0.5-1 page, while an executive summary is about 5-10% of a document’s total word count. Since the primary purpose of an executive summary is to summarize an entire paper and its research comprehensively, this part precedes an introduction section of a report, proposal, or business plan (Rehart, 2021). In terms of pages and words, the length of an executive summary depends on academic levels and document complexities, while general writing guidelines are:

High School

• Length: 0.5-1 page
• Word Count: 125-250 words
• Length: 1-2 pages
• Word Count: 250-500 words

University (Undergraduate)

• Length: 1-3 pages
• Word Count: 250-750 words

Master’s

• Length: 2-4 pages
• Word Count: 500-1,000 words
• Length: 3-6 pages
• Word Count: 750-1,500 words

Note: Some sections of an executive summary can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, and it depends on an entire paper’s length and its scope of research. Basically, the five main parts of an executive summary are an introduction, problem or purpose, methodology, key findings, and recommendations (Thomas, 2022). Moreover, an executive summary typically appears at the beginning of most documents, before an introduction section and after a title page. In turn, an executive summary is usually one to two pages long, or about 10% of a total length of a main document. Finally, to start an executive summary, people begin with a concise statement that introduces a main paper’s purpose and research scope of a document.

Distinctive Features

An executive summary is identifiable by specific features that distinguish it from other texts, including essays and research papers. For example, to write an executive summary, people clearly and concisely present a main purpose for research, key findings, conclusions, and recommendations of a document, ensuring this part captures a paper’s essence and an actual importance of a full report (Giampalmi, 2023). Essentially, all scholarly documents require the same level of mental preparation by writers to produce high-quality work. However, students must understand that some papers are demanding because of their contents, which underscore a basic essay outline. The main contents that earmark distinctive features of an executive summary are an introduction, a purpose statement, methods, findings, recommendations, limitations, an implementation plan, and a conclusion.

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1️⃣ Introduction

An introduction of an executive summary highlights a document’s topic, which emphasizes the type of paper it is, such as a business proposal, project report, or market research report. In principle, an executive summary must be short and precise because a central focus is a chosen topic, and one should use a bridge sentence or short paragraph for an introduction (Falkenberg et al., 2024). In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning an executive summary are:

• This executive summary includes critical findings and strategic recommendations derived from a comprehensive analysis of [topic/issue].
• A primary objective of this report is to present main results and implications of extensive research on [topic/issue].
• This document synthesizes essential insights and proposed actions based on a presented investigation of [topic/issue].
• This proposal covers significant outcomes and strategic recommendations for an in-depth study of [topic/issue].
• A particular purpose of this study is to examine key conclusions and actionable insights from an entire evaluation of [topic/issue].
• This plan provides a concise overview of major findings and strategic advice resulting from a particular analysis of [topic/issue].
• A current business report outlines primary discoveries and strategic proposals from a rigorous examination of [topic/issue].
• This project paper aims to present pivotal results and recommendations identified through comprehensive research on [topic/issue].
• This business proposal offers a valid presentation of critical points and strategic implications derived from a particular study on [topic/issue].
• This executive summary for a research paper highlights core findings and proposed strategies based on a detailed literature review of [topic/issue].

2️⃣ Purpose Statement

A purpose statement of an executive summary communicates a document’s primary objective. In this respect, such an element provides a brief background of an assigned topic to enhance a reader’s understanding of an actual essence of an entire document (Rehart, 2021). In turn, a particular language in this part reflects an expected end, while common terms include ‘aim,’ ‘goal,’ ‘purpose,’ or ‘objective.’

3️⃣ Methods

In an executive summary, methods outline a scholar’s approach to achieving a primary objective, such as examining official data, conducting a field study, reviewing existing literature, or interviewing stakeholders. Basically, people need to understand that this component differs from methodology and literature review sections of research papers (Younas & Ali, 2021). In other words, this element does not detail the methods one has used to complete an entire work. On the other hand, authors need to outline particular strategies that help writers to better understand critical issues, such as challenges to a sector, stakeholder sentiments, industry insights, or potential barriers.

4️⃣ Findings

Findings in an executive summary are study outcomes of discussed methods. For example, it is what a scholar has discovered about a specific issue, such as an industry, stakeholders, or a project (Rehart, 2021). This component is crucial to readers because it offers a sneak peek into study outcomes that underscore a primary purpose of an entire document: project report, market research report, or business proposal.

5️⃣ Recommendations

Recommendations in an executive summary underscore a writer’s perspective regarding different issues that a research paper addresses as a challenge or problem. For example, if a given paper is a report about healthcare status, potential challenges or problems it identifies may be nursing shortages or medical errors (Thomas, 2022). In turn, provided recommendations should highlight what stakeholders, like the government and health institutions, must do to overcome these challenges or problems. Finally, such recommendations address what must be done to rectify a situation or make it possible to achieve specific outcomes.

6️⃣ Limitations

Like a research paper, an executive summary must point out some limitations that a document’s author encountered in reporting about a project or business plan. For example, these limitations may include a lack of goodwill among stakeholders, sufficient time to investigate a matter, or resources to execute a particular task (Thomas, 2022). This information is essential to a target audience because it indicates some dynamics influencing a primary objective.

7️⃣ Implementation Plan

An implementation plan is a component in an executive summary that provides a framework for adopting and implementing the recommendations. Typically, this information includes claims and activities, people responsible, a specific timeframe, and budget allocation (Rehart, 2021). Sometimes, an evaluation plan is also part of an implementation section.

8️⃣ Conclusion

A conclusion part of an executive summary is a call to action about a project paper, market research report, or business proposal. Unlike conclusions in other academic papers and essays that summarize paper’s main points, a conclusion part of an executive summary gives a direction about a whole document (Morris et al., 2024). Essentially, writers use this component to call to action an intended audience to adopt offered recommendations or compel stakeholders to adopt a particular perspective. In turn, this part also persuades a target audience to adopt a particular stance regarding a report or proposal.

Length Differences

Students should know the length of each of the above sections, except introduction and conclusion parts, depending on a document’s total length, which determines a specific word count of an executive summary. For example, a long and robust project report or business proposal requires a long executive summary with an extended purpose statement, methods, findings, recommendations, limitations, and implementation, which means the length of 4-10 double-spaced pages, or 2-5 single-spaced pages, or 1,000–2,500 words, depending on a particular volume of an overall work (Rehart, 2021). Typically, introduction and conclusion sections take a statement or short paragraph of 0.5-1 double-spaced page or 125-250 words, irrespective of a research paper or executive summary’s length. However, if a research paper is a long work of more than 10 double-spaced pages, 5 single-spaced pages, or 2,500 words, introduction and conclusion parts should not exceed 5-10% of a whole word count (Rehart, 2021). Besides, a corresponding body section of an executive summary must take about 80-90% of a total word count of a research paper, not less. The word count of a title page, a table of contents, an abstract, a reference page, and an appendix is not considered since these parts are technical and do not mean writing itself.

Structure and Writing of Each Section

Writing an executive summary requires students to demonstrate an understanding of its purpose. This understanding means students should know when to write its content, what to talk about, and how to write each of the sections above. On the other hand, to write a well-organized executive summary for a report, people concisely summarize a paper’s purpose and its scope of research, methodology, key findings, conclusions, and recommendations (Giampalmi, 2023). Therefore, writing an executive summary is essential to approach carefully and with the utmost focus.

1️⃣ Writing an Executive Summary as a Last Action

Because an executive summary overviews an entire research paper, students should write this part after finishing their market research papers, project reports, or business proposals. However, one should read and reread a whole document to know the most significant points forming part of brief components (Thomas, 2022). By writing an executive summary as a last item, one can have a mental picture of what to address to give a target audience a comprehensive sneak peek into a research document.

2️⃣ Making Notes of Important Aspects

While reading and rereading a research paper, students should take notes of the most critical aspects of their work that must appear in an executive summary. Moreover, one should identify crucial information in an introduction, a purpose statement, methods, findings, recommendations, limitations, an implementation plan, and a conclusion (Rehart, 2021). As such, these aspects must address each section above.

Writing an Introduction Part

When writing a college essay introduction, students must refrain from going into details about a specific purpose of a whole text because they will have an opportunity to do so later. While one may mention a document’s background, this person should make it concise to contextualize an assigned topic (Giampalmi, 2023). The most crucial detail is that an introduction part of an executive summary should be a sentence or brief paragraph. In turn, to write a well-structured executive summary for an essay, people succinctly present a main argument, key points, and conclusions of an entire paper, ensuring it captures an actual essence and significance of its content.

Writing a Purpose Statement Part

When writing a research paper’s purpose, students should communicate a specific type of document, such as a business proposal, a market report, or a project composition. The next thing is to state a valid background, provide a particular reason for writing, like sourcing funds, recommend solutions, or report progress and challenges (Rehart, 2021). However, one should avoid going into detail because they will do so later in an executive summary of a research paper.

Writing a Methods Part

When writing a methods section, one should focus on giving an intended audience a sense of a particular strategy that helps achieve study outcomes. However, students should approach this part differently than a methodology section of a research paper (Giampalmi, 2023). Instead, they should mention what they did to execute an entire work, such as interviewing stakeholders or analyzing official data. The best way to approach this section is to list everything one did to make a research paper.

Writing a Findings Part

Since a primary purpose of a findings section in a research paper is to narrate outcomes, students should write it in the past tense. Therefore, when writing this section of an executive summary, authors should see themselves as reporters educating a target audience about what they have learned in executing a particular task (Giampalmi, 2023). An essential detail students should note when writing this section is to refer to credible sources of information that lead to the findings. These reliable sources can be documents, organizations, individuals in leadership, or industry experts.

Writing a Recommendations Part

When writing a recommendations section in an executive summary for a research paper, students should focus on giving a clear and brief paragraph of what should happen after the findings. Essentially, one should address key decision-makers or stakeholders because they are responsible for creating change through policy (Rehart, 2021). The best approach to writing recommendations is to interrogate each challenge or problem and related findings to understand what must happen to create positive outcomes.

Writing a Limitations Part

The best approach to writing a limitations section in an executive summary for a research paper is to interrogate possible challenges. For example, such aspects that one has faced in a discussed project may include as a lack of goodwill among stakeholders or sufficient time, resources, or support (Rehart, 2021). Ideally, authors aim to inform an intended audience of some factors that have complicated their work or may complicate an overall implementation of offered recommendations.

Writing an Implementation Plan Part

When writing an implementation plan in an executive summary, students should focus on telling a target audience a specific procedure for actualizing provided recommendations. In this respect, the best approach to writing this section is to interrogate offered recommendations to determine what must happen to actualize each (Giampalmi, 2023). In principle, some issues to consider may include people in charge of implementation, such as an organization’s human resource director, a specific time it would take to actualize (timeline), a study budget, and how to measure success (evaluation).

Writing a Conclusion Part

When writing a conclusion part, students should aim to persuade an intended audience to adopt a particular stance regarding a research paper or proposal. Although one might reiterate a particular topic, it is not necessary to mention each of the preceding sections (Giampalmi, 2023). Instead, authors should focus on sending a strong communication regarding a central theme of a document. The best approach to writing a conclusion section is to influence a target audience’s perspective on an assigned topic in accordance with offered recommendations and implementation plan steps.

3️⃣ Explaining Acronyms, Abbreviations, and Key Terms

Since an executive summary is an overview of a market research paper, project report, or business plan, authors should write it clearly and precisely. For example, to write a correct executive summary for a research proposal, people briefly summarize a suggested purpose, key objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and recommendations (Thomas, 2022). As such, the best approach is to use simple language and define all acronyms, abbreviations, and key terms. In turn, students should not assume that readers know what each acronym, abbreviation, and key term means when they read complete documents.

4️⃣ Proofreading, Revising, and Editing

After completing writing a research paper, students should proofread a complete document to identify grammatical and formatting mistakes and inconsistent arguments and ideas. For example, the best way to fix these mistakes and flaws is to revise a whole research paper by fixing mistakes, like missing punctuation and wrong citations, and editing a document by adding or deleting words and sentences to create a logical order of thoughts and ideas (Giampalmi, 2023). In turn, authors must be factual, not use word count fillers, and avoid unnecessary repetitions. Besides, they should know that a target audience is not interested in stories but in factual communication that makes logical sense.

Outline Template

Like essays, executive summaries have a specific structure students should demonstrate in their writing. The sections above underscore this outline template, meaning students should know what each section of writing an executive summary for a research paper entails and how to write it. Basically, the best way to write a high-quality executive summary is to create a template and populate this outline with ideas for a project, a business plan, a proposal, or a report (Giampalmi, 2023). In turn, such a preparation helps students to have a mental picture of a particular kind of document they want to have and a right attitude when writing.

I. Introduction: [Introduce a specific topic and state a particular kind of document, such as a market research paper, project report, or business plan].

II. Purpose Statement: [Explain a primary objective of a research paper, such as investigating a problem, souring some funds, or reporting its progress].

III. Methods: [Enumerate how a specific task is accomplished, such as examining official data, interviewing stakeholders, or reviewing existing literature].

IV. Findings: [Provide study outcomes of discussed methods, such as what official data reveals, stakeholders’ sentiments, or what research says].

V. Recommendations: [State clearly what stakeholders or key decisions must do to address possible challenges or problems that the findings reveal].

VI. Limitations: [Discuss defined challenges or problems that were encountered in completing a particular task, such as poor time management, a lack of support, or absent goodwill by stakeholders].

VII. Implementation Plan: [Include what stakeholders or key decision-makers must do to actualize provided recommendations, such as identifying a person responsible and establishing a budget and timeline].

VIII. Conclusion: [Persuade a target audience to adopt offered recommendations and work toward creating change by facilitating an implementation plan].

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Executive Summary Example

Topic: A Need for Proactive Climate Change Initiatives

I. Introduction

Stakeholders in a particular climate change discourse must shift their focus from discourse to practical, proactive measures to demonstrate seriousness in tackling the biggest threat of the millennium.

II. Purpose Statement

A Particular purpose of writing this executive study is to examine a current status of a climate change discourse, interrogate dynamics that make it unpromising as a practical solution to a particular crisis, and recommend what stakeholders must do to restore hope to millions globally who are afraid that climate change poses the biggest threat to an overall existence of current and future generations.

III. Methods

An executive report employs several data-gathering methods to achieve these objectives, including examining a climate change discourse over the decades to identify key themes: environmental policies, greenhouse gases, industrial pollution, natural disasters, weather forecasts, and others. Another method is interrogating research and official data on climate change by government agencies in the last three decades. A current report also considers interviews with environmentalists, social justice advocates, government officials, and leaders of organizations that dedicate their mission to creating awareness about a particular need for environmental conservation and preservation.

IV. Findings

Overall, the methods above reveal worrying findings about a discussed climate change discourse:

• Human activities, including industries and deforestation, have increased global warming to 1.1 degrees C, triggering unprecedented changes to the Earth’s climate. The lack of consensus on reversing human-induced global warming among the most industrialized countries suggests that such a trend will worsen in the coming decades.
• Adverse impacts of climate change are evident on people and ecosystems. Without urgent practical interventions, these impacts will become more widespread and severe with every additional degree of global warming.
• Developing and implementing adaptation measures in communities can effectively build and foster the resilience of people and ecosystems. However, stakeholders must interrogate their climate change funding priorities for effective proactive interventions.
• Communities will continue recording climate-induced losses and damages as long as communities cannot adapt to some impacts of this global problem. An example is 1.1 degrees C of global warming.
• Projections indicate global greenhouse gas (GHC) emissions will peak at 1.5 degrees C before 2025 in selected at-risk pathways.
• Burning fossil fuels remains a leading cause of a global climate crisis.
• Carbon removal is the most effective and practical solution to limiting global warming from peaking at 1.5 degrees C.
• There is a lack of commitment by key stakeholders to finance climate change mitigation and adaptation.
• Climate change and collective efforts to mitigate and adapt to its impacts will exacerbate global inequity if stakeholders do not prioritize just transition.

These findings of a research paper confirm that a climate change discourse is alive to the threat the global problem poses to people and ecosystems and the weaknesses in current interventions.

V. Recommendations

This executive report recommends that key stakeholders, including governments, communities, policy experts, and financiers, must adopt to prioritize practical solutions to the global climate crisis.

• Stakeholders must target a net-zero climate-resilient future through urgent, systemwide transformations.
• Adopt policies that enhance access to fresh produce by establishing a relationship between farmers and consumers.
• Improve awareness about the critical benefits of organic foods.
• Consider policies that promote regenerative farm practices to eliminate toxins and revitalize soils.
• Create infrastructures for transforming waste into compost manure for farm use.
• Develop policies that encourage communities to embrace a green neighborhood.

VI. Limitations

This executive report recognizes several limitations that have made a real fight against climate change unproductive and threaten current and future endeavors to arrest the crisis. For example, stakeholders need to note that these limitations may undermine a particular implementation of provided recommendations in this report. One limitation is a lack of goodwill among key stakeholders. The four leading industrial powers, namely the United States, China, India, and Brazil, contribute to significant global atmospheric temperature increases. Traditionally, these countries have refused to agree on how to cut back on industries primarily because they are the main drivers of their economies. Another limitation is the mis-prioritization of financing, where much focus is on theoretical interventions, such as agreements and seminars, at the expense of practical solutions like building infrastructures for transforming waste into usable products. While stakeholders agree on an actual essence of the 3R (reuse, reduce, and recycle) framework, there is little practical implementation at the community level.

VII. Implementation Plan

A particular implementation plan for recommendations provided above recognizes government agencies as the most suitable implementers because official bodies are key stakeholders who finance climate change initiatives. A proposed business plan considers that, to shift a current climate change fight from mere discourse to practical evidence, stakeholders must prioritize the following:

• A budget of at least $50 million annually at the country level;
• A period of between 2-5 years; and
• Periodic evaluation of progress through at least one annual seminar or conference.

VIII. Conclusion

This executive research paper calls on all stakeholders in a discussed climate change discourse to reconsider a current focus by recognizing its failure to create meaningful change as evidence shows this crisis continues to worsen. Instead, they should focus on practical, proactive interventions focusing on communities because that is where much environmental damage happens. It is also where defined adversities of a current crisis manifest most powerfully.

Steps on How to Write an Executive Summary

Writing an executive summary is a technical undertaking requiring students to consider each section’s basic structure and essential details. When writing a research paper, one must know when to write each section and what to say (Thomas, 2022). In this respect, preparation, stage setup, writing a first draft of an executive section, and wrap-up are essential steps students should follow to produce a research paper document that meets quality standards. As a result, an executive summary should include a document’s purpose, key findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

Step 1: Preparation

As a first step in writing an executive summary, preparation helps auhtors to develop a proper mindset. For example, this step involves knowing a basic structure and what to write in each section of a research paper (Giampalmi, 2023). Therefore, a critical task for students in this stage is constructing a basic structure and stating what must happen in each section.

Step 2: Stage Setup

Setting up a stage is a second step in writing an executive summary. For instance, this step involves reading and rereading a document to identify critical details to address in each section of a basic structure (Giampalmi, 2023). The best approach to achieve this outcome is to make notes of the most vital data when reading a research paper.

Step 3: Writing a First Draft

A third step is to create a first draft of an executive summary by putting all the critical data into relevant sections. Ideally, people must start with a clear introduction where they point out a focal point of a research paper and then move to a study’s purpose statement, methods, findings, recommendations, limitations, implementation plan, and conclusion (Rehart, 2021). Each research section must summarize and not explain the most critical data.

Step 4: Wrap-Up

Wrapping a first draft into a final version of a research paper is a last step in writing an executive summary. This stage involves proofreading, revising, and editing a first version of an executive section to eliminate grammar mistakes and inconsistent statements (Rehart, 2021). As a result, authors must perfect their executive summaries of research papers by fixing errors and flaws that affect a logical progression of ideas and thoughts and an overall quality of an entire text.

Writing an executive summary can be demanding, particularly for students who do not prepare well or do not know what is most important. The following tips can be helpful: begin an executive summary by explaining why a specific topic is important; state a particular purpose of a research paper by outlining a unique problem and why it is essential or relevant to an intended audience; explain study methods that help to execute a defined task; state research findings; enumerate some limitations by addressing dynamics that undermine an overall implementation of solutions; consider different recommendations and list them using numbers or bullet points; outline an implementation plan that identifies a person or entity that oversee its execution, a budget allocation, and how to evaluate progress; and write a conclusion that persuades a target audience to adopt a particular perspective about a chosen topic. In turn, 10 dos and 10 don’ts that people should consider when writing their executive summaries in their research papers are:

• reading a research paper thoroughly to identify a primary objective, methods for collecting data, key findings, recommendations, significant limitations, and an implementation strategy;
• considering an intended audience of an executive summary to determine whether to use simple or technical language;
• writing formally and avoiding jargon;
• outlining a specific structure that considers all the main sections (introduction, purpose statement, methods, key findings, recommendations, limitations, implementation, and conclusion);
• organizing a brief text in a summary format;
• using a short, clear, precise, and captivating opening statement to hook readers;
• including each section to state the most critical details;
• focusing on summarizing a research paper rather than explaining its contents;
• reviewing a complete document for incorrect information;
• proofreading, revising, and editing an executive summary to eliminate all mistakes.

10 Dont’s

• using jargon to simplify complex terms and phrases;
• explaining rather than summarizing a research paper;
• creating too many grammar mistakes, such as missing punctuation and confusing words with a similar pronunciation;
• ignoring a basic outline for writing;
• writing a lengthy introduction;
• concentrating on some sections more than others;
• explaining ideas or concepts not discussed in a main text;
• providing a very short or long summary that does not align with a document’s total word count;
• beginning an executive summary with anecdote or irrelevant information;
• placing an executive summary at the end of a research paper.

Things to Remember

An executive summary in APA or any other format is a brief and well-structured summary of a long scholarly document, such as a research paper, that follows corresponding style guidelines, including a title, a clear statement of main points, and proper citations. In turn, general writing recommendations to remember include:

• Tell an interesting story. Writers should approach an executive summary as a platform for inducing a reader’s interest in reading a research paper. As such, one should use each section to tell what is most crucial to an intended audience.
• Highlight critical data. Writers should focus on what is most critical in each section of a brief text, emphasizing statistical data because it is visually captivating.
• Maintain a formal tone from beginning to end. Writers should avoid using jargon to simplify complex concepts or terminologies.
• Write an executive summary after completing an actual research paper. Writing an executive summary as a last element of a research paper helps one to approach this document as a final overview of main points. In turn, a typical mistake of starting an executive summary before writing an actual research paper is that authors can write about details they fail to address in a final version of a document.

What to Include

Common mistakes.

• Being Too Lengthy: An executive summary should be concise and straight to a single point, avoiding unnecessary details.
• Lacking Clarity: Failure to clearly present main points can confuse readers and dilute the impact.
• Ignoring a Target Audience: Not tailoring a presented content to specific needs and interests of an intended audience can make it less relevant and engaging.
• Overloading With Technical Jargon: Using too much technical language can make it difficult for non-expert readers to understand its content.
• Missing Key Information: Omitting essential findings or recommendations can leave readers without a clear understanding of a report’s significance.
• Focusing on Minor Details: Including trivial details can distract from a main message and reduce a research paper’s effectiveness.
• Inconsistent Tone: An inconsistent tone can make a brief text appear unprofessional and disorganized.
• Lack of Structure: Without a clear structure, a particular content can be hard to follow and fail to highlight the most important points.
• Repeating Content: Repeating the same information all the time can make a text redundant and longer than needed.
• Failing to Highlight Conclusions: Not emphasizing main conclusions and recommendations can leave readers uncertain about next steps.

This guide on how to write a well-organized executive summary of a research paper emphasizes its purpose and structure. Basically, such an element covers key sections, such as an introduction, background, objective, methods, findings, analysis, conclusions, and recommendations. Furthermore, effective executive summaries are clear, concise, and relevant, providing essential information without unnecessary details. As a result, following structured tips, like avoiding jargon and emphasizing key points, ensures this part of a research or any other type of paper communicates a document’s essence effectively.

Falkenberg, L. J., Joyce, P. W., & Soranno, P. A. (2024). How to write lay summaries of research articles for wider accessibility. Limnology and Oceanography Letters , 9 (2), 93–98. https://doi.org/10.1002/lol2.10373

Giampalmi, J. (2023). College research papers for dummies . John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Morris, W., Crossley, S., Holmes, L., Ou, C., Dascalu, M., & McNamara, D. (2024). Formative feedback on student-authored summaries in intelligent textbooks using large language models. International Journal of Artificial Intelligence in Education , 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40593-024-00395-0

Rehart, M. J. (2021). Writing business research reports: A guide to scientific writing . Routledge.

Thomas, C. G. (2022). Research methodology and scientific writing . Springer.

Younas, A., & Ali, P. (2021). Five tips for developing useful literature summary tables for writing review articles. Evidence Based Nursing , 24 (2), 32–34. https://doi.org/10.1136/ebnurs-2021-103417

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