A Statement of Advice (SoA) is the financial planning industry's terminology for a personalized strategy document that complies with legal and professional standards.  This is also sometimes referred to as a financial plan.

It can best be summarized as a detailed report of recommendations that focuses on ways to achieve your objectives, after taking into consideration your current circumstances.  It becomes your blueprint or 'how to' document and is the reference point to monitor your progress.

It's true that people who have their objectives stated in writing are more likely to see these achieved.