data•6 prompts

Report Writing Prompts

Data only matters if it drives action. These prompts help you turn analysis into clear reports that inform decisions.

1. Executive Summary

Best: Claude

Write an executive summary for this analysis: [paste findings]. Audience: [who]. Their decision: [what they're deciding]. Keep it to one page: key finding, supporting evidence, recommendation, and risks/limitations. Lead with the "so what."

Executives want the bottom line first. Don't bury the lead.

2. Insights Narrative

Best: Claude

Turn these data findings into a narrative: [paste findings/charts]. Don't just describe what the data shows—explain what it means and why it matters. Connect insights to business impact. Make numbers memorable.

Stories are more persuasive than numbers alone. Weave a narrative.

3. Recommendations Section

Best: Claude

Based on this analysis: [paste findings], write recommendations. For each recommendation: what to do, why (connected to findings), expected impact, and implementation considerations. Prioritize by impact and feasibility.

Recommendations should be specific and actionable. "Improve X" is too vague.

4. Methodology Section

Best: Claude

Write a methodology section for my analysis. Data source: [describe]. Analysis approach: [describe]. Limitations: [list]. Make it clear enough that someone could replicate the analysis, and transparent about limitations.

Methodology builds credibility. Be honest about limitations.

5. Chart Annotation

Best: Claude

Write annotations for this chart: [describe chart and key data points]. Highlight: the main takeaway, notable patterns, and caveats. Write in a way that someone could understand the point without the chart.

Charts need context. Don't assume viewers will see what you see.

6. Report Template

Best: Claude

Create a report template for [type of analysis: weekly metrics, quarterly review, ad hoc analysis]. Include: sections to include, what each section should cover, and formatting guidelines. Make it reusable.

Templates save time and ensure consistency. Build them for recurring reports.