An executive summary is the most-read part of any report or business document, because busy decision-makers often read only it. It must convey the purpose, key findings and recommendations of a much longer document in a page or two. This complete UK guide explains what an executive summary is, what it must contain, how it differs from an abstract or introduction, and how to write one that stands alone.
What Is an Executive Summary?
An executive summary is a condensed overview of a report or proposal — its purpose, main findings and recommendations — written so a reader can grasp the essentials without reading the full document. It must make sense on its own.
What It Must Contain
✓ The purpose and context.
✓ The key findings or main points.
✓ The conclusions.
✓ The recommendations or required actions.
It should mirror the structure of the full document in miniature.
Write It Last
Although it appears at the front, write the executive summary last, once the full document is complete, so it accurately reflects the finished content. Drafting it first almost always produces a summary that no longer matches the report.
Executive Summary vs Abstract vs Introduction
An abstract summarises academic work concisely; an introduction sets up a document; an executive summary stands alone and includes conclusions and recommendations a decision-maker can act on. See our abstract guide.
Make It Standalone
Assume the reader will read nothing else. Avoid jargon and references to “the report below”, state findings and recommendations clearly, and keep it concise — usually no more than 10 percent of the document, often a page or two.
Common Mistakes and Tips
✓ Writing it first.
✓ Leaving out recommendations.
✓ Too long or too vague.
✓ Assuming the reader has read the report. Tip: write it last, make it standalone, and include conclusions and actions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an executive summary?
A condensed overview of a report's purpose, findings, conclusions and recommendations that stands alone.
What should an executive summary include?
The purpose, key findings, conclusions and recommendations.
When should I write the executive summary?
Last, once the full document is complete.
How long should an executive summary be?
Usually no more than 10 percent of the document, often a page or two.
What is the difference between an executive summary and an abstract?
An executive summary stands alone and includes recommendations; an abstract briefly summarises academic work.
Should it include recommendations?
Yes — that is often the most important part for decision-makers.
Can it have headings?
Yes, if they help a busy reader navigate quickly.
Does it need references?
Usually not — it summarises rather than cites.
Related Study Guides
How to Write a Report • How to Write an Abstract • How to Write a Business Report • How to Write an MBA Assignment
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