Answer-first executive briefing

Answer-first executive briefingAnswer-first executive briefing: the ask and recommendation at the top, three supporting arguments, evidence and appendix below, and a five-minute cut lineThe ask and recommendationFirst 60 secondsAnswerSupportDetailArgument 1one sentenceeachEvidence, risks,optionsArgument 2one sentenceeachEvidence, risks,optionsArgument 3one sentenceeachEvidence, risks,optionsFive-minute cut lineAppendix: pulled on demand during discussion and Q&A

An answer-first briefing drawn as a pyramid, after Barbara Minto, with Nancy Duarte's advice to plan for a cut slot. Everything above the dashed line has to survive if the meeting shrinks to five minutes.