An executive summary is a miniature version of a report, proposal, or portfolio. It is usually one page or shorter. It contain enough information for readers to be acquainted with the document without actually reading the entire document. Generally it contains:

- problem statement
- background information
- main points
- description of alternatives
- conclusion

An executive summary is an independent element rather than a part of a document body i.e. in the absence of the document, an executive summary would be sufficient for a reader to understand what sort of information the document would contain.

Executive summary is the most important part of a report and thus should be very well written. When in rush, a reader may decide to read only the executive summary or a reader may use the executive summary to decide whether he wishes to read the entire document.

Technical details, charts, graphs, and examples generally do not belong in an executive summary. Concentrate on the main ideas, facts, and just enough detail to make to point. Refrain from using unnecessary words. Be precise, to the point, clear and concise. Make sure that the executive summary is accurate and fully representative of the document. It should not be misleading and ideally it should give a great first impression.