1. Executive Summary – This explains about everything that is the rest of the business plan. It should be written to completely cover every aspect of the rest of the business plan. A good way to think about it is this may be the only part of the whole plan that gets read, so it should sell your business.

2. Table of Contents – Do not elaborate. Keep it short and to the point. You get to explain later.

3. Company Description – This must cover the basics of your business. What products/services and what industry your business provides. It should also cover what makes your business stand out from the competition and how you will be successful.

4. Market Analysis – This is where you prove that you have done your marketing research. You should explain about the industry, including target markets. Explain your competition and compare your business to them. Explain your marketing strategies and plans.

5. Technology – Explain the technology you will use and how new developments may affect your business.

6. Business Operations or Manufacturing – Explain how you will conduct business. What makes you better than the competition as far as operations.

7. Management and Ownership – Here you will need to name all the key personnel. Explain their education, skills, and what they bring to the company.

8. Organization and Personnel – This is where you tell your personnel needs. State how many employees are needed, how you will pay them and what you will pay them. Also explain the personnel organizational structure.

9. Capital and Usage – This must be very detailed and explained. Starting with how much is needed to start and then projection of needs.

10. Financial – Here is where you get to project future gains and losses. You should list them quarterly until the business breaks even then annual reports are fine.

12. Appendices – Any resumes, references, copies of studies done or anything else to back up information in the business plan should be included here.

These 12 steps should help you put together a solid business plan as you start a small business. Just keep in mind that you should stick to the facts and back everything up with evidence.

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