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Hiya [USER=38524]@allenpopi[/USER]I think it really does depend on the context of the written exercise. If the task is framed as a memo, especially to a partner or client, starting with an “Executive Summary” is not only acceptable but often expected. It shows you understand how to frontload key information in a reader friendly way. During a previous vacation scheme, I was actually called up for failing to include an executive summary in a memo which involved providing advice, particularly since there were many different considerations on the table.That said, it’s important to match your tone and structure to the specific scenario. If the exercise feels more like a short note, internal email, or something more informal, a labelled executive summary might feel slightly overengineered/rehearesed. In those cases, it’s often better to just incorporate your summary into the first paragraph without a heading. I think a good rule of thumb is to take your cue from how the written task is framed. If it resembles a formal legal memo or briefing note, using "Executive Summary" as a subheading shows you understand professional communication norms. Just make sure it’s actually a summary and not an introduction (keep it brief, focused, and clearly reflective of the content that follows).Hope that's helpful!
Hiya [USER=38524]@allenpopi[/USER]
I think it really does depend on the context of the written exercise. If the task is framed as a memo, especially to a partner or client, starting with an “Executive Summary” is not only acceptable but often expected. It shows you understand how to frontload key information in a reader friendly way. During a previous vacation scheme, I was actually called up for failing to include an executive summary in a memo which involved providing advice, particularly since there were many different considerations on the table.
That said, it’s important to match your tone and structure to the specific scenario. If the exercise feels more like a short note, internal email, or something more informal, a labelled executive summary might feel slightly overengineered/rehearesed. In those cases, it’s often better to just incorporate your summary into the first paragraph without a heading. I think a good rule of thumb is to take your cue from how the written task is framed. If it resembles a formal legal memo or briefing note, using "Executive Summary" as a subheading shows you understand professional communication norms. Just make sure it’s actually a summary and not an introduction (keep it brief, focused, and clearly reflective of the content that follows).
Hope that's helpful!
