Some Argument Goals for Executive Summary Writing

Whether you are giving a brief synopsis of a report in abstract form or are writing a longer executive summary, the words you use paint a mental picture for readers.  If the picture is sharp and clear, they will be more likely to find the material trustworthy.  If it’s sloppy, readers will be less trusting.  When evaluating preliminary material, readers quickly form opinions about the competence, validity, and quality of the work.  In many cases, executive decisions are made based on a reading of only the front matter. — Kristin Woolever, Writing for the Technical Professions

1.  What kind of mental picture comes to mind from the summary in its current form?

2.  What is the thesis of this summary?  Does it solve a problem for management? 

3.  Is the thesis sentence placed at the end of the introduction?

4.  Does the body of this summary provide direct support for the solution proposed in the thesis?

5.  Is all evidence and analysis given in the body? 

6.  Does the solution give a persuasive summation of your thesis?

7.  Does the mental picture of the solution complement that of the introduction?