$20.$ Despite the fact that there is not "one" format for writing successful marketing and business plans, there are general guidelines: $(1)$ Use care in layout, design, and presentation. $(2)$ Be positive and specific to convey potential success. $(3)$ Use bullet points for succinctness and emphasis. $(4)$ Use A level $($the first level$)$ and B$-$level $($the second level$)$ headings under the numbered section headings to help readers make easy transitions from one topic to another. $(5)$ Use visuals where appropriate. $(6)$ Shoot for a plan $15$ to $35$ pages in length, not including financial projections and appendixes. $(7)$

a$.$ Use different color fonts or paper to represent different sections of your plan.

b$.$ Set a firm date by which you will require an answer from a potential investor, after which you will take your plan somewhere else.

c$.$ Include as an attachment formal resumes for all key players in your management team.

d$.$ Do not use a business plan unless you are borrowing at least $$100,000.$

e$.$ Use a direct, professional writing style.