Use the Minto Pyramid when you write reports

Gary Bandy

17 Dec 2025 — 1 min read

I've been writing finance reports for over 30 years. Most people do it wrong.

They start with background. Build up slowly. Save the conclusion for page 47.

There's a better approach. It's called the Minto Pyramid.

It flips everything upside down:

Answer first. Lead with your conclusion. Don't make readers wait.
Key supporting points. Give 3-4 reasons why your answer is right.
Data and details. Now show the evidence. Tables, charts, calculations.

Most finance professionals start at 3. It's where you should finish.

Why It Works

Barbara Minto developed this at McKinsey in the 1970s. She found that busy executives need the answer immediately.

If they agree with it, they move on. If they question it, they drill into your supporting points. If they still have doubts, they check your data.

What this means for you

Use it everywhere:

Board papers (conclusion in the executive summary)
Emails (answer in the first line)
Budget reports (variance explanation before the tables)

Stop burying your conclusions. Put them first.

Your readers will thank you.

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