Other than the cover, the first thing you see is the executive summary. This section is the most important part of the business plan because it gives an overview of the entire document. Every section that follows, except for the table of contents and appendices, is summarized in this piece.

Within the executive summary, the company emphasizes its main point—its reason for writing the plan. If the company is looking for funding, the plan shows how that funding will enhance its business operations or increase its bottom line.

From the executive summary, you—as a banker, investor, etc.—can determine whether it is worthwhile to read any further. A banker is typically looking for evidence that the company is stable and can pay its bills on time, while a potential investor wants to see that the business is (or soon will be) growing significantly.

The executive summary is usually two to three pages long and concisely written. The main points of each section are brief and to the point—but not too short. The key supporting points are included so that you see a snapshot of the entire business plan.