What is this 'executive summary' thing and do I need one?

An executive summary provides a short description of your paper or report, focusing on the practical implications and recommendations. Including an executive summary is standard procedure in reports fro policy makers. Executive summaries are usually included on one of the first pages of a report, sometimes even on a different colour paper, to provide ultra-quick access.

When you write your executive summary, think about a policy maker who has 5 minutes. What does he/she really need to know about your report?