Research Report: Writing an Executive Summary

Executive Summary is the entire summary of the report. An executive summary is a greatly condensed version of a longer piece of writing that highlights the major points covered, and concisely describes the content and scope of the writing. The executive summary is the fundamental part of the report and every viewer first goes through the executive summary to further proceed to the entire report. If he/she find executive summary interesting, then he/she goes through the entire report. Thus, the executive summary must be attractive, grammatical-error-free, concise, and marked with veracity.

The executive summary must start with an objective of the study followed by the methodology, findings, and recommendation.

Executive Summary: Starting with Objective (Using Present Tense)

• The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of ... on...
• The goals of this study are to determine …
• The primary purpose of this study is to determine …
• This study is specifically concerned with the effect of ……

Executive Summary: Methodology:

• This study was conducted in Nepal Bank Limited
• The empirical part of this study was conducted in May 2000.
• Data for this study/research were collected/gathered/obtained from/by/through/with the help of/among …

Executive Summary: Result or Findings:

• These results suggest that …
• The results show that/reveal …
• It was concluded that …

Points to Remember in Writing Executive Summary

• Executive Summary is only a summary of the report, so adding new information is not entertained.
• Executive Summary is generally started by stating the objective of the study, followed by research methodology, variables used in the report, data analysis, findings, and recommendations.
• The objective of study, Research Methodology, Result or Findings and Recommendations are the cornerstone of the executive summary.
• There should be a logical connection between the information included.
• The executive summary should be written in the passive voice.
• Executive Summary should not be more than 400 words or One Page (Microsoft Word; Font: Times New Roman; Font Size: 12)