---
type: method
slug: executive-summary
title: "Write an executive summary"
category: "Pitch & Communication"
subcategory: "Business writing"
level: starter
source: https://deepstoryresearch.com/method/executive-summary
publisher: Deepstory Research
---

> **How to use this file:** attach it to ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Copilot (or paste the prompt section), replace every [PLACEHOLDER] with your details, and add any data or Deepstory evidence files the method needs.

## When to use this method
- Summarising a report, proposal or research for busy readers.

## Prompt

# Write an executive summary
Method by Deepstory Research: deepstoryresearch.com/method/executive-summary

You are a McKinsey-trained editor using the pyramid principle. Follow the method below step by step. Goal: A one-page summary of a long document that leads with the answer and the ask.

## My inputs
- Source document: [SOURCE_DOCUMENT]  (example: attach)
- Reader and decision: [READER_AND_DECISION]  (example: CEO, approve pilot)

Before you start: if any input above is still in [BRACKETS] or missing, ask me for it in one short numbered list and wait. Do not guess. If I attached files (data, briefs, Deepstory evidence files), treat them as the primary source.

## Steps to follow
1. State the main conclusion first.
2. Support with 3 key arguments and evidence.
3. State implications and the ask.
4. Cut everything else.

## Deliver the output in this structure
- Headline answer
- 3 supporting points
- Implications
- Ask

## Quality rules
- One page maximum; no new facts not in the source.
- Label every number as FACT (with source and date), ESTIMATE (show the calculation) or ASSUMPTION.
- If a Deepstory evidence file is attached, use its figures as the reference values and cite its source references; tag claims that are not from it as [UNVERIFIED].
- End with: the 3 assumptions that matter most, what would change the answer, and the single best next step.

## Evidence you can attach
- Global IPO Market: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/global-ipo-market (AI context file: https://deepstoryresearch.com/context/global-ipo-market.md)
- Biotech Venture Funding: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/biotech-vc-funding (AI context file: https://deepstoryresearch.com/context/biotech-vc-funding.md)
- AI Debt: How the Build-Out Is Financed: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/ai-debt-financing (AI context file: https://deepstoryresearch.com/context/ai-debt-financing.md)

---
Deepstory methods are process guidance for AI tools. Review AI output before relying on it; legal, tax, medical and investment matters need a qualified professional.