Beginner level · Module 4: Communicating Insights · Lesson 1 of 3
Leading with the Headline
Put the most important finding first and support it with a few key facts.
In this lesson you will
- Write a headline finding
- Structure a message from headline to support
Key concepts
headlinepyramid structuresupporting pointsevidence
The lesson
Busy managers read the first line and decide whether to read more. Start with the headline — the most important finding — not with methods or background.
Support it with two or three key points, each backed by one number or chart. Put details and methods at the end or in an appendix.
A good headline is specific: 'Wau's sales fell 12% because cooking oil was out of stock for two weeks', not 'Sales performance varied'.
Step by step
- Write three possible headlines for the analysis.
- Choose the most important.
- Add three supporting points.
- Move methods to the end.
Practice activity
Write the headline and supporting points for the performance review.
Expected result: A specific headline supported by three evidenced points.
Check your understanding
-
What should come first in a findings summary?
Show answer
The headline — the most important finding.
-
What makes a headline good?
Show answer
It is specific and states what happened and why.
Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.