The Secrets to Writing a Successful Business Plan: A Pro Shares A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Plan That Gets Results

Shelton's clear and thoughtful approach to the steps in writing a business plan reveal he knows what he's talking about and can communicate it in clear and concise language. What I particularly like is the real life examples he gives to further your understanding. Chapter 13 on how to begin the financial section is not only a blueprint for how to do it, but also suggests how to think about it, what options you can choose in making your assumptions, then his recommendation of which is best. Other sections on financing your business are rich in info as well as in practical advice, again showing his lengthy experience and depth of knowledge. Anyone who needs a business plan couldn't do better than following this practical and well written guide to how to do one.

Hal is right on point with this book. If you're starting a new business, refining an existing business or want to bring along the next generation of leadership in your current business, this book is a "must have". Hal is very clear on the "why" behind each business plan element and gives the practical examples and tools. The focus isn't just on cost management (like most write about today) but also on growing topline. I'm looking forward to the sequel.

Well written and gives good ideas on how to sit down and draft a business plan. I like the section on the feasibility plan. Makes you think hard if the idea is even worth it and worth the time tor a full blown business plan.

Shelton presents an honest account of what a business plan should cover and get right in order to secure finance and to have the business taken seriously, especially during the early stages. It's a very short book, practically an essay, but very clear, very direct and very useful. I'd highly recommend this for anyone who is thinking seriously about starting their own business.

An amazing book that has helped me in three different classes — even one that’s for nonprofit management. A must if you are a business major, entrepreneur, or business owner.

The used copy I was sold had so much marking in the first several chapters as to make it practically illegible and not really a good value for the price. Guess I need to buy a clean copy and give that a try.The book appears to offer a step-by-step how-to guide that apparently has worked well for the author's many clients.

“I am a professor of Business Management & Entrepreneurship Studies at Paul Smith's College in Paul Smiths, NY. My forever task is trying to find relevant books for my entrepreneurship classes at a price point that is reasonable—Hal’s book hit both criteria spot on. The book is an excellent first-step to planning the venture, including the scary part about finances. Buy it."Dr. Litynski, Paul Smith's College, Paul Smiths, NY

I have always used a business canvas and never wanted to put in the work on a business plan. This book has helped dramatically. As a side note, I had the privilege of meeting Hal Shelton & got my book signed at the 2017 ASBC Symposium in Dallas TX.

I haven't finished it but happy so far easy to understand. Very American tho

Very thorough book, fully recommended