This free executive summary template is ready to edit in Word. Fill it in on screen, print it, or save a PDF copy for your records.
| File type | Word (.docx) |
|---|---|
| Main fields | purpose and requested decision, key findings, supporting evidence, business impact, recommendation |
| Cost | Free |
An executive summary gives a busy reader the main conclusion of a longer report or proposal, along with the evidence and decision it supports. Use the templates below to outline the problem, key findings, recommendation, and next step without repeating the full document.
Lead with the Decision or Main Finding
Write the summary after completing the underlying analysis. Explain the issue, why it matters, what the strongest evidence shows, and which action you recommend. Include material costs, benefits, risks, and timing when they affect the decision.
For example, a proposal summary should say what approval is requested and what it will enable. A report summary should state the finding rather than merely list the sections covered. Keep figures consistent with the main document and make the summary understandable on its own.
Download the Executive Summary Template
1. Executive Summary Template
The layout includes space for purpose and requested decision, key findings, supporting evidence, together with business impact, recommendation, risks owners and next steps.
Download Executive Summary Template
2. Project Executive Summary Template
Download Project Executive Summary Template
What Should an Executive Summary Include?
- purpose and requested decision
- key findings
- supporting evidence
- business impact
- recommendation
- risks owners and next steps
Which Executive Summary Layout Suits You?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common problems include turning the summary into a long introduction, presenting findings without evidence, hiding the requested decision, adding details that belong in the main report.
Executive-summary review example
For a proposal, write the executive summary after completing the full document. State the problem, recommended action, expected benefit, approximate cost and next decision. A reader should understand the central case without reading every appendix. Keep evidence consistent with the source document and avoid introducing unsupported claims. You can organize supporting discussion with a proposal template and track follow-up decisions with a meeting agenda template.
Executive Summary FAQ
What goes into a executive summary template?
Start with purpose and requested decision, key findings, supporting evidence, business impact.
Is the executive summary template free to download?
Completely free. Use the executive summary at home or at work as often as you need.
Do I need Microsoft Word for the executive summary template?
Word is easiest for the executive summary. Other editors open it too, though fonts may shift slightly.
Can I send the executive summary template by email?
Yes. Save the executive summary as PDF for emailing and keep the editable file for next time.
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Tip: follow Microsoft’s steps for exporting to PDF.
