Purpose: Report / Proposal Instructions
Content creation rules for reports, proposals, and explanatory presentations.
📊 Target: Internal reports, proposals, explanatory materials, progress reports, results presentations
Slide Structure
| Position | Type | Purpose | Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Title | Topic, presenter, date | ✅ |
| 2 | Agenda | Overview of sections | ✅ |
| 3 | Executive Summary | Key findings/recommendations | Recommended |
| 4-N | Content | Detailed sections | ✅ |
| N-1 | Summary | Conclusions, recommendations | ✅ |
| N | Closing | Next steps, Q&A | ✅ |
Content Guidelines
Executive Summary
- 3-5 key points
- Actionable insights
- Numbers/metrics if available
- Decision/recommendation if applicable
Body Sections
Each section should have:
- Clear section header (type: "section")
- 2-5 content slides
- Supporting data/visuals
- Section mini-summary if complex
Data Presentation
Charts and Graphs
| Data Type | Recommended Chart |
|---|---|
| Trends over time | Line chart |
| Comparisons | Bar chart |
| Proportions | Pie chart (max 5 segments) |
| Correlations | Scatter plot |
| Progress | Progress bar / gauge |
Tables
- Max 5 columns, 7 rows per slide
- Highlight key cells
- Include source/date
Tone Guidelines
Formal Reports
- Professional language
- Third person preferred
- Data-driven statements
- Clear recommendations
Progress Reports
- Status indicators (✅ 🟡 ❌)
- Metrics with targets
- Blockers highlighted
- Action items clear
Proposals
- Problem → Solution structure
- Benefits quantified
- Risks addressed
- Clear ask/CTA
Speaker Notes
For reports and proposals:
- Background: Context not on slide
- Data sources: Where numbers come from
- Anticipated questions: Pre-prepared answers
- Discussion points: What to emphasize
Visual Guidelines
| Element | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Company logo | Title and closing only |
| Charts | Consistent colors throughout |
| Icons | Simple, professional |
| Photos | High quality, relevant |
Quality Checklist
- Executive summary captures essence
- Data has sources cited
- Recommendations are actionable
- Next steps are specific
- Timeline included if applicable
- Owner/contact info clear