Business Plan Writer Tips: Watch & Learn How to Write a Winning Plan

Writing a business plan doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With over 50 short, practical videos, I’ve broken down the process into simple steps — from creating your structure to writing your SWOT analysis and financial projections.

On this page, you’ll find my Business Plan Writer Tips series, designed for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startup founders who need professional guidance.

Video Summary (Tip #1 – Start with a Structure)

In this first video above, Dr. Paul Borosky, MBA, explains why every business plan should start with a solid structure. A clear structure gives your plan focus and helps lenders, investors, and partners quickly understand your business.

Here are three ways to build your structure:

  • Use SBA resources – Start with the SBA’s recommended outline (executive summary, company description, market analysis, management).

  • Create your own template – Paul demonstrates how he sets up title pages, owner statements, and executive summaries for clients.

  • Start with a one-page executive summary – Focus on the problem, product/service, target market, competitive advantage, financial highlights, and funding needs. Expand this into a full plan over time.

By starting small and growing your structure, you can move from a 1-page outline to a professional 50-page plan with confidence.

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Video Summary (Tip #2 – Presentation is Essential)

In this video, Dr. Paul Borosky, MBA, explains why presentation matters in a business plan. Even with strong content, a poorly formatted or cluttered plan can turn off investors and lenders.

Key takeaways:

  • Use professional fonts, consistent formatting, and clear headings.

  • Include white space and visuals where appropriate.

  • Ensure your plan is easy to skim — executives rarely read every word.

Video Summary (Tip #3 – New York City: Localizing Your Plan)

Business plans should reflect the local market. In this tip, Paul highlights the importance of tailoring your business plan to your city.

Key takeaways:

  • Show awareness of local competition and demographics.

  • Highlight your business location advantages.

  • Investors expect localized market research.

Video Summary (Tip #4 – Los Angeles: Describe, Don’t Sell)

In this video, Paul advises entrepreneurs to describe their business clearly, rather than overselling it. Investors want facts, not hype.

Key takeaways:

  • Use clear, objective descriptions of products and services.

  • Avoid exaggerated claims like “the best ever” or “guaranteed success.”

  • Let your financials and research demonstrate value.

Video Summary (Tip #5 – Chicago: Summarize Your Business)

A strong business summary sets the stage for the entire plan. In this tip, Paul explains how to keep it simple and to the point.

Key takeaways:

  • Include the who, what, where, and why of your business.

  • Keep the summary short (1–2 paragraphs).

  • Expand details later in the plan.

Video Summary (Tip #6 – Houston: Include a Business Model)

Investors want to know how your business makes money. In this tip, Paul covers the importance of clearly explaining your business model.

Key takeaways:

  • Describe your revenue streams.

  • Show how your model can scale over time.

  • Tie your model back to market demand.

Video Summary (Tip #7 – Phoenix: Differentiate Your Business)

Standing out from competitors is essential. Paul explains how to highlight your competitive advantages in your plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Identify what makes your business unique (pricing, location, service, quality).

  • Avoid generic claims — be specific.

  • Show how differentiation drives customer loyalty.

Video Summary (Tip #8 – Philadelphia: Pricing Strategy)

Your pricing strategy signals your market positioning. Paul explains why pricing should be carefully explained in your business plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Link pricing to your target market and competitive positioning.

  • Avoid underpricing just to gain market share.

  • Show that your pricing supports profitability.

Video Summary (Tip #9 – San Antonio: Location Matters)

Location can make or break certain businesses. In this tip, Paul explains how to justify your location choice.

Key takeaways:

  • Describe foot traffic, visibility, and accessibility.

  • Highlight proximity to customers or suppliers.

  • If online, explain your digital reach and strategy.

Video Summary (Tip #10 – San Diego: Funding Request)

Paul shares how to present your funding request to lenders and investors for the best results.

Key takeaways:

  • Clearly state how much funding you need.

  • Outline how the funds will be used (startup costs, operations, marketing).

  • Provide a repayment plan or ROI expectation.

Video Summary (Tip #11 – Dallas: Financial Assumptions Matter)

Paul emphasizes that reliable financial projections start with strong assumptions. Without logic behind the numbers, forecasts lose credibility.

Key takeaways:

  • Document the basis of your assumptions (pricing, sales, costs).

  • Use industry benchmarks when possible.

  • Assumptions provide the foundation for trustworthy projections.

Video Summary (Tip #12 – San Jose: The Owner’s Statement)

Investors want to know why you’re starting this business. Paul explains the importance of including an Owner’s Statement.

Key takeaways:

  • Share your motivation and passion.

  • Connect your background and experience to the business idea.

  • Build confidence by showing commitment.

Video Summary (Tip #13 – Austin: Use a Financial Template)

Save time and ensure accuracy with a financial template. Paul explains how templates streamline your plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Automate profit & loss, cash flow, and balance sheet.

  • Minimize manual errors.

  • Templates speed up the business plan process.

Video Summary (Tip #14 – Jacksonville: Customer Feedback Strategy)

Understanding your customers is critical. Paul recommends including a plan for gathering feedback.

Key takeaways:

  • Outline how you’ll collect feedback (surveys, reviews, focus groups).

  • Show how you’ll adjust your business based on feedback.

  • Demonstrates responsiveness to the market.

Video Summary (Tip #15 – San Francisco: Use Pictures Wisely)

Paul warns against overloading business plans with images.

Key takeaways:

  • Use select visuals (charts, diagrams, logos) for clarity.

  • Avoid clutter that distracts from key content.

  • Keep the plan professional and easy to read.

Video Summary (Tip #16 – Columbus: Write a Mission Statement)

Your mission statement shouldn’t be top secret. Paul explains how to craft a clear one.

Key takeaways:

  • Define your purpose and goals.

  • Keep it short, clear, and motivational.

  • Show alignment with your business vision.

Video Summary (Tip #17 – Fort Worth: Vision Statement)

A vision statement shows where your business is headed.

Key takeaways:

  • Write a statement that reflects your long-term aspirations.

  • Inspire investors and your team with clarity.

  • Connect your vision to customer impact.

Video Summary (Tip #18 – Indianapolis: Define Your Business Values)

Paul stresses the importance of business values in your plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Values show your company culture and ethics.

  • They build trust with investors and customers.

  • Include values that guide decision-making.

Video Summary (Tip #19 – Charlotte: Amortization & Payments)

Financial details matter. Paul explains why to include an amortization schedule and payment expectations.

Key takeaways:

  • Show how loans will be paid back.

  • Demonstrate awareness of monthly obligations.

  • Adds transparency for lenders.

Video Summary (Tip #20 – Seattle: Sales & Inventory Forecast)

Paul covers how to forecast sales and inventory in Excel.

Key takeaways:

  • Build a gross profit sales forecast.

  • Project inventory needs and costs.

  • Use data to align with financial projections.

Video Summary (Tip #21 – Denver: Project Inventory Levels)

Paul demonstrates how to use Excel to forecast inventory.

Key takeaways:

  • Track inventory changes over time.

  • Prevent overstock or shortages.

  • Strengthen your pro forma accuracy.

Video Summary (Tip #22 – Washington, DC: Blog Strategy)

Even blogs belong in your business plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Explain how blogging supports marketing & SEO.

  • Identify where it fits in your strategy.

  • Show how content drives customer acquisition.

Video Summary (Tip #23 – Boston: Synergy in Your Plan)

Paul discusses adding synergy into mission, vision, and values.

Key takeaways:

  • Show how different parts of your business work together.

  • Highlight partnerships or collaborations.

  • Demonstrate stronger overall value.

Video Summary (Tip #24 – El Paso: Capital Budgeting)

Paul explains how to decide if an idea will make money using capital budgeting.

Key takeaways:

  • Use templates to analyze profitability.

  • Show investors you’ve done the math.

  • Helps decide whether to pursue or pivot.

Video Summary (Tip #25 – Detroit: Financial Ratios)

Financial ratios tell your story. Paul explains why to include them.

Key takeaways:

  • Ratios clarify profitability, liquidity, and efficiency.

  • Help investors compare your business to industry benchmarks.

  • Use them to strengthen your financial section.

Video Summary (Tip #26 – Nashville: Target Market)

In this tip, Paul explains why identifying and clearly defining your target market is critical in a business plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Specify who your customers are (demographics, location, income level).

  • Show why this group is most likely to buy from you.

  • Targeting helps focus your marketing and financial assumptions.

Video Summary (Tip #27 – Memphis: Strategy Section)

Every business plan needs a strategy. Paul explains how to include one properly.

Key takeaways:

  • Outline your competitive strategy and growth plan.

  • Show where the strategy section fits within the plan.

  • Strategy gives investors confidence in long-term vision.

Video Summary (Tip #28 – Portland: NPV Profile)

Paul demonstrates how using a Net Present Value (NPV) profile can help with funding decisions.

Key takeaways:

  • NPV shows the value of future cash flows.

  • Helps decide whether a project is financially worth pursuing.

  • Including NPV signals financial sophistication.

Video Summary (Tip #29 – Oklahoma City: Primary & Secondary Markets)

Business plans should distinguish between primary and secondary markets.

Key takeaways:

  • Define your core (primary) customers.

  • Identify potential secondary customers for expansion.

  • Adds depth and shows growth opportunities.

Video Summary (Tip #30 – Las Vegas: Benchmarks)

Paul explains the role of benchmarks in business planning.

Key takeaways:

  • Compare your goals against industry standards.

  • Use benchmarks for sales, costs, or profitability.

  • Demonstrates realism and accountability.

Video Summary (Tip #31 – Louisville: Goals, Keys, Timeline)

Paul outlines how to align goals, success factors, and timelines.

Key takeaways:

  • List company goals and measurable objectives.

  • Define “keys to success.”

  • Add a realistic timeline to keep everything on track.

Video Summary (Tip #32 – Baltimore: Technology Section)

Technology should be addressed in your business plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Describe the tech you’ll use in operations.

  • Show how technology supports efficiency or scalability.

  • Adds credibility in modern business planning.

Video Summary (Tip #33 – Milwaukee: Competitive Advantage)

Paul emphasizes the importance of a competitive advantage section.

Key takeaways:

  • Identify what protects you from competitors.

  • Show how your advantage is sustainable.

  • Without this, investors may see your business as “just another option.”

Video Summary (Tip #34 – Albuquerque: Customer Experience)

Customer experience can differentiate your business.

Key takeaways:

  • Explain how you’ll create positive customer interactions.

  • Show how experience drives repeat business.

  • Customer experience adds long-term value.

Video Summary (Tip #35 – Tucson: Hours of Operation)

Even simple details like hours of operation matter.

Key takeaways:

  • State your hours clearly.

  • Justify hours if they differ from industry norms.

  • Shows operational awareness.

Video Summary (Tip #36 – Fresno: Operations Section)

Paul explains why a clear operations section is necessary.

Key takeaways:

  • Outline day-to-day processes.

  • Show staffing and resource needs.

  • Operations clarity reassures lenders and investors.

Video Summary (Tip #37 – Sacramento: Future Plans)

Your future vision is part of a strong plan.

Key takeaways:

  • Include expansion or product roadmap.

  • Demonstrates long-term thinking.

  • Helps investors see growth potential.

Video Summary (Tip #38 – Mesa: Industry Description)

Industry analysis builds context for your business.

Key takeaways:

  • Provide an overview of your industry.

  • Highlight growth trends and challenges.

  • Show you understand the bigger picture.

Video Summary (Tip #39 – Kansas City: Threats & Opportunities)

Paul explains how to address external factors.

Key takeaways:

  • Identify threats like regulation or competitors.

  • Highlight opportunities like new markets or trends.

  • Balanced analysis shows preparedness.

Video Summary (Tip #40 – Atlanta: SWOT Analysis)

A SWOT analysis is a cornerstone of business planning.

Key takeaways:

  • Strengths and Weaknesses = internal.

  • Opportunities and Threats = external.

  • Provides a snapshot of your current position.

Video Summary (Tip #41 – Long Beach: Risk Analysis)

Paul emphasizes discussing risks.

Key takeaways:

  • Identify major business risks (financial, operational, legal).

  • Show mitigation strategies.

  • Transparency builds investor trust.

Video Summary (Tip #42 – Raleigh: Barriers to Entry)

Understanding market barriers is key.

Key takeaways:

  • Explain hurdles for new competitors.

  • Show how you’ll overcome industry entry challenges.

  • Reinforces your competitive position.

Video Summary (Tip #43 – Colorado Springs: Economic Conditions)

Your plan should reflect the current economy.

Key takeaways:

  • Discuss local or national economic trends.

  • Show how they affect your business.

  • Demonstrates awareness and adaptability.

Video Summary (Tip #44 – Miami: Competitor Summary)

Paul explains how to analyze competitors.

Key takeaways:

  • Identify major competitors.

  • Compare strengths and weaknesses.

  • Show why your business will succeed despite competition.

Video Summary (Tip #45 – Virginia Beach: Competitor Analysis)

Builds on the previous tip, focusing deeper on competition.

Key takeaways:

  • Use data (pricing, customer base, location).

  • Include competitor positioning.

  • Show how you’ll capture market share.

Video Summary (Tip #46 – Oakland: Strengths & Weaknesses)

Paul highlights competitor strengths and weaknesses.

Key takeaways:

  • Compare your business against competitors.

  • Show areas where you’re stronger.

  • Acknowledge weaknesses and plan to improve.

Video Summary (Tip #47 – Minneapolis: Demographics)

Demographics matter for planning.

Key takeaways:

  • Provide city/state demographic data.

  • Connect demographics to your target market.

  • Data supports sales and marketing strategy.

Video Summary (Tip #48 – Tulsa: Management Summary)

Paul explains why management needs its own section.

Key takeaways:

  • Introduce your leadership team.

  • Highlight experience and expertise.

  • Strong management increases investor confidence.

Video Summary (Tip #49 – Arlington: Job Descriptions)

Job roles must be clear.

Key takeaways:

  • Outline key positions and responsibilities.

  • Show how each role supports operations.

  • Demonstrates staffing readiness.

Video Summary (Tip #50 – New Orleans: Resumes in Business Plans)

Resumes add credibility to your management team.

Key takeaways:

  • Include resumes for key team members.

  • Highlight relevant experience and achievements.

  • Resumes prove you have the right people to succeed.