Final answer:
An executive summary should be included when the report is proposing a new idea or will be seen by people outside the company, as it presents information in a concise and accessible format.
Step-by-step explanation:
When deciding when to include an executive summary in a report, focus on the purpose of the summary rather than the length of the report or the presentation settings. An executive summary is a condensation of the key points in a document, intended to give readers a quick preview of the report's contents. It is typically included in longer reports to provide a synthesized understanding of the material and to assist readers in grasping the main points before diving into the full document.
With that in mind, an executive summary is beneficial:
- When the report is proposing a new idea, to clarify the proposal at the outset for readers.
- When the report will be seen by people outside of the company, to ensure they can immediately understand its relevance and importance without needing to understand internal jargon or details.
- Additionally, it is always wise to consider the executive summary when the report involves complex data, advanced analyses, or when time is of the essence for the readership to absorb the document's findings.
The executive summary is best written after the report is completed to ensure it accurately reflects the content and main conclusions. Aim to have a summary that presents information in the most concise and economical way possible for your readers. It should be clear and direct without bias, and it should adequately reflect the contents and importance of the full report.