Executive Summary | UMGC Effective Writing Center

Skip Navigation

UMGC Effective Writing Center Writing an Executive Summary

An executive summary is a brief document typically directed at top-level managers who sometimes make decisions based upon a reading of this summary alone. As a result, the executive summary must be concise but comprehensive, meaning that it must present in summary form all major sections of the main report:

purpose
problem
methods of analyzing the problem
results of analysis
recommendations

To repeat, because of the critical role it plays, the executive summary is often the first and only part read by key decision makers. Therefore, it must be designed so that it can be read independently of the main document. Typically, figures and tables are not referenced in the executive summary. Uncommon terminology, symbols, and acronyms are avoided. If the executive summary is sufficiently persuasive, the entire proposal will then be read in full.

Therefore, your summary is key to the success of your proposal and should reflect these characteristics:

Perfect Miniaturization. The executive summary should contain the same sections in the same order as the full report.
Major Findings Only. Because it is a distilled version of the full report, the summary should include only the proposal's principal points and major evidence. Most charts, tables, and deep-level analysis are reserved for full proposal.
Proportional. The executive summary should typically be only 10% the length of the full proposal it distills. Therefore, the executive summary for a 10-page proposal would be 1 page or less.
Stand Alone. The summary should be written in a way that it can be read as a stand-alone document. Before submitting it, allow a test subject to read the summary. The subject should be able to give to you the basics of the full proposal from one reading of the summary.
Flawless. Like a job resume, even the most minor error of proofreading or grammar can spell rejection.

Sample Executive Summary:

Parts of this Sample Executive Summary:

Subheadings: The summary's subheadings should reflect the report's main divisions. Subheadings of the executive summary should not be the same as those of the main report.

Purpose: The summary provides a purpose of the report in concise format using present tense.

Results: Findings and conclusions are reported in condensed form without reference to tables or appendices. Lists are used when possible.

Recommendations: These should be in list form whenever possible.

Contact Us

Our helpful admissions advisors can help you choose an academic program to fit your career goals, estimate your transfer credits, and develop a plan for your education costs that fits your budget. If you’re a current t �� student, please visit the Help Center.

Personal Information

First Name *

* Required

Please provide your First Name.

Last Name *

* Required

Please provide your Last Name.

Contact Information

E-mail Address *

* Required

Please recheck your email address.

Please provide a valid E-Mail Address.

Phone *

Required

Please check your phone number format (U.S.: ###-###-####).

Phone is a required field.

ZIP Code or APO/FPO *

* Required

Please provide a valid ZIP Code or APO/FPO.

Additional Information

Degree of Interest * * Required

This field is required.

Academic Area of Interest * * Required

This field is required.

U.S. Military Affiliation (if applicable)

By submitting this form, you acknowledge that you intend to sign this form electronically and that your electronic signature is the equivalent of a handwritten signature, with all the same legal and binding effect. You are giving your express written consent without obligation for UMGC to contact you regarding our educational programs and services using e-mail, phone, or text, including automated technology for calls and/or texts to the mobile number(s) provided. For more details, including how to opt out, read our privacy policy or contact an admissions advisor.

Please wait, your form is being submitted.

��

UMGC Effective Writing Center Writing an Executive Summary

EXPLORE MORE OF UMGC

EXPLORE MORE OF UMGC

Sample Executive Summary:

Parts of this Sample Executive Summary:

Contact Us

Personal Information

Contact Information

Additional Information

��������

UMGC Effective Writing Center Writing an Executive Summary

EXPLORE MORE OF UMGC

EXPLORE MORE OF UMGC

Sample Executive Summary:

Parts of this Sample Executive Summary:

Contact Us

Personal Information

Contact Information

Additional Information

��