Policy memorandum (“policy memo”): Write a 3-4-page (single-spaced) policy memo providing policy advice on the social issue/problem. Good policy memos help policymakers understand the social issue or problem, consider options for addressing the problem (including possible benefits and disadvantages of each decision), and make a recommendation based on evidence. Policy memos should include the following:
you may use an existing US policy you want to change or a policy you want implemented in the US
a- Memo title and addressee(s): Address your memo to a specific person or small group of influencers. Write for this particular audience.
b- Executive summary: This should be a short summary (approximately 200 words) of the purpose of the memo and its recommendation. Indicate in an additional sentence the audience for whom the memo is intended and why it’s directed to them.
c- Statement of issue/problem:
Identify the problem that has led to the need for creation, continuation or discontinuation of a policy and identify the group(s) affected by the problem.
Include key facts and scholarly research that a decision maker must know to understand the context of the problem. Be clear, precise, and succinct and include credible references from at least 5 scholarly sources.
d- Existing policies: Summarize what has been done about the problem thus far. You may include (1) a policy that is already enacted or (2) current budget cuts that directly impact your clients. Be concise and include just essential facts to inform the reader of policy options that have already been pursued, if any. Note that the absence of action may be considered a policy decision. ○
e- Multiple policy options: Provide three potential courses of action, and discuss advantages and disadvantages (pros/cons) of each policy option. These options should refer to specific policies and/or programs. Build a persuasive evidence-based argument (using logic and facts) supported by credible sources.
f- Your recommendation: Please recommend and briefly discuss why this option is best. Convince your readers they need to support this choice.
g- References
Tips for writing the policy memo: Use subheadings, bullets, and italics or bold to emphasize key points. Aim for concise paragraphs made up of concise sentences. Put your main point in the first sentence. Don’t bury a key policy recommendation or observation in the middle of a paragraph. Use blank space to separate sections. Whenever possible, choose plain words over jargon or complex words. Use 12-point typeface and 1-inch margins (bottom, top, sides) throughout the document. Experiment with colors, images, and/or graphs. Consider fonts other than Times New Roman. To avoid chunky or patchy text in collaborative documents, consider appointing a team member as copy editor.
Suggested page length: 4 pages not including reference page
