You have written an entire research paper. But not all the people who want to know about the subject are ready to read it whole. Because research papers are lengthy, very lengthy, and many individuals just want to know the main point of it. And that is where summaries come in.
The summary of a research paper is called an executive summary. This summary is located at the very beginning of the paper, right after the title page, unlike other summaries which are located at the end.
In this blog, we will know seven steps that are effective in writing an executive summary. These steps can help you in writing a summary that many people will find easy to read. And those who just read executive summaries will enjoy it. So, let’s begin discussing the steps.
Short & Solid:
The executive summary of your research paper should be short but powerful enough to engage the reader. Mostly, the executive summaries in one to two pages. It should be 10-12% of your research paper, and that depends on how long your research paper is.
What Is Being Solid?
By solid, it means that it must contain data and figures. Something that the reader can consume, not just the basic information of the research paper. Every sentence should have some kind of value for the decision-maker. Try to communicate clearly without extra words, so that a student of 7th grade can easily understand it.
Strong Hook:
Your executive summary should include a strong hook at the very start to capture the reader’s attention so that he/she will go to the very end. It should be compelling with bold statements and spark a shock in the reader’s mind that it’s true. What is a strong hook?
How To Create A Hook?
It is a simple statement with a data figure that can shake basic concepts of quantitative research topics. It can be a fact, statement, or statistic which can show how important the research paper is. You have made use of this opportunity to win the reader’s interest so that he might read your entire paper.
Present Clear Message:
The executive summary of your research paper is not the place where you put anything you want. Most people make the mistake of outing everything in an exec summary. This is wrong. Your executive summary should be very clear with its message in a very short manner.
How To Do It?
To be clear is simple and when you do just one thing. When you only discuss the main point of your research paper. Doesn’t matter what it is, you have to be around it. Going into details can take your reader to a whole other place.
Precise & Direct Language:
Precise and direct language is very important in your executive summary. By being precise in your words, you lessen the word count and also tell your point quickly and effectively, Because brief words, written or pronounced, with more data can capture the subconscious mind in quite an impactful way.
How To Use Precise & Direct Language?
You just have to avoid words that are not important. Make no use of jargon and buzzwords. No over use of many technical terms. Connect the words without any grammar mistakes. For good sentences, try to use an active voice as much as you can.
Write Your Findings:
Your executive summary is a lot more than just a normal introduction. To back up your claims, you have to write what evidence you find for your claims. Your findings and some of their benefits are important for readers to make good decisions backed up by evidence.
How To Mention It?
Read your entire research paper and find what insight points are the most compelling and interesting. Choose the most interesting statement or find something that can impress the reader. But you also have to put it in the right place. Furthermore, if you are living in Dubai You can search “Assignment Writing Help Dubai” for premium help.
Good Recommendations:
You have to reasonably recommend something because a perfect executive summary not only discusses the problem but also gives solutions that are effectively doable in practical life. Let’s see how we can perfectly recommend something.
How To Recommend Something?
First, mention the main problem clearly to know what it is. Then with research and evidence, create a solution that readers might find actionable. And this can show that you’re not just discussing the problem but trying to solve it for the good.
Not Part Of The Research Paper:
Your executive summary is a part of your research paper but not as you think it. It should stand alone without the research paper. Strong enough to not be part of a research paper and can be used anywhere without the entire thing.
How To Do It?
Stop referring the reader to see the research paper. It will not only annoy the reader but also lose interest quickly. You have to mention all the important text in the summary without references. For example, avoid this: “For more information, see Appendix F”. Additionally, without references, your reader can get all the ideas without going anywhere else for the rest of the information.
Conclusion:
A brilliant executive summary that captures the reader’s attention is important for your research paper. And to make this brilliant executive summary for your research paper, follow these steps carefully and proofread it for the final touch.
Your executive summary should be short, solid, with a hook, and clear message for effectiveness. And not only this, it should be in precise and direct language, with all of your findings, and recommendation along with standing alone.
These are the seven things that can take your executive summary of your research paper to the next level. Follow them carefully and read them again and again, if you don’t understand them. Because a brilliant executive summary is important for an effective research paper.