how to write a public policy essay

Policy Briefs

What this handout is about.

This handout will offer tips for writing effective policy briefs. Be sure to check with your instructor about their specific expectations for your assignment.

What are policy briefs?

Imagine that you’re an elected official serving on a committee that sets the standards cars must meet to pass a state inspection. You know that this is a complex issue, and you’d like to learn more about existing policies, the effects of emissions on the environment and on public health, the economic consequences of different possible approaches, and more–you want to make an informed decision. But you don’t have time to research all of these issues! You need a policy brief.

A policy brief presents a concise summary of information that can help readers understand, and likely make decisions about, government policies. Policy briefs may give objective summaries of relevant research, suggest possible policy options, or go even further and argue for particular courses of action.

How do policy briefs differ from other kinds of writing assignments?

You may encounter policy brief assignments in many different academic disciplines, from public health and environmental science to education and social work. If you’re reading this handout because you’re having your first encounter with such an assignment, don’t worry–many of your existing skills and strategies, like using evidence , being concise , and organizing your information effectively , will help you succeed at this form of writing. However, policy briefs are distinctive in several ways.

In some of your college writing, you’ve addressed your peers, your professors, or other members of your academic field. Policy briefs are usually created for a more general reader or policy maker who has a stake in the issue that you’re discussing.

Tone and terminology

Many academic disciplines discourage using unnecessary jargon, but clear language is especially important in policy briefs. If you find yourself using jargon, try to replace it with more direct language that a non-specialist reader would be more likely to understand. When specialized terminology is necessary, explain it quickly and clearly to ensure that your reader doesn’t get confused.

Policy briefs are distinctive in their focus on communicating the practical implications of research to a specific audience. Suppose that you and your roommate both write research-based papers about global warming. Your roommate is writing a research paper for an environmental science course, and you are writing a policy brief for a course on public policy. You might both use the exact same sources in writing your papers. So, how might those papers differ?

Your roommate’s research paper is likely to present the findings of previous studies and synthesize them in order to present an argument about what we know. It might also discuss the methods and processes used in the research.

Your policy brief might synthesize the same scientific findings, but it will deploy them for a very specific purpose: to help readers decide what they should do. It will relate the findings to current policy debates, with an emphasis on applying the research outcomes rather than assessing the research procedures. A research paper might also suggest practical actions, but a policy brief is likely to emphasize them more strongly and develop them more fully.

To support these changes in audience, tone, and purpose, policy briefs have a distinctive format. You should consult your assignment prompt and/or your professor for instructions about the specific requirements of your assignment, but most policy briefs have several features in common. They tend to use lots of headings and have relatively short sections. This structure differs from many short papers in the humanities that may have a title but no further headings, and from reports in the sciences that may follow the “IMRAD” structure of introduction, methods, results, and discussion. Your brief might include graphs, charts, or other visual aids that make it easier to digest the most important information within sections.  Policy briefs often include some of these sections:

• Title: A good title quickly communicates the contents of the brief in a memorable way.
• Executive Summary: This section is often one to two paragraphs long; it includes an overview of the problem and the proposed policy action.
• Context or Scope of Problem: This section communicates the importance of the problem and aims to convince the reader of the necessity of policy action.
• Policy Alternatives: This section discusses the current policy approach and explains proposed options. It should be fair and accurate while convincing the reader why the policy action proposed in the brief is the most desirable.
• Policy Recommendations: This section contains the most detailed explanation of the concrete steps to be taken to address the policy issue.
• Appendices: If some readers might need further support in order to accept your argument but doing so in the brief itself might derail the conversation for other readers, you might include the extra information in an appendix.
• Consulted or Recommended Sources: These should be reliable sources that you have used throughout your brief to guide your policy discussion and recommendations.

Depending on your specific topic and assignment, you might combine sections or break them down into several more specific ones.

How do I identify a problem for my policy brief?

An effective policy brief must propose a solution to a well-defined problem that can be addressed at the level of policy. This may sound easy, but it can take a lot of work to think of a problem in a way that is open to policy action.

For example, “bad spending habits in young adults” might be a problem that you feel strongly about, but you can’t simply implement a policy to “make better financial decisions.” In order to make it the subject of a policy brief, you’ll need to look for research on the topic and narrow it down. Is the problem a lack of financial education, predatory lending practices, dishonest advertising, or something else? Narrowing to one of these (and perhaps further) would allow you to write a brief that can propose concrete policy action.

For another example, let’s say that you wanted to address children’s health. This is a big issue, and too broad to serve as the focus of a policy brief, but it could serve as a starting point for research. As you begin to research studies on children’s health, you might decide to zoom in on the more specific issue of childhood obesity. You’ll need to consult the research further to decide what factors contribute to it in order to propose policy changes. Is it lack of exercise, nutritional deficiencies, a combination of these, or something else? Choosing one or another of these issues, your brief would zoom in even further to specific proposals that might include exercise initiatives, nutritional guidelines, or school lunch programs.

The key is that you define the problem and its contributing factors as specifically as possible so that some sort of concrete policy action (at the local, state, or national level) is feasible.

Framing the issue

Once you’ve identified the problem for yourself, you need to decide how you will present it to your reader. Your own process of identifying the problem likely had some stops, starts, and dead-ends, but your goal in framing the issue for your reader is to provide the most direct path to understanding the problem and the proposed policy change. It can be helpful to think of some of the most pressing questions your audience will have and attempt to preemptively answer those questions. Here are some questions you might want to consider:

What is the problem?

Understanding what the problem is, in the clearest terms possible, will give your reader a reference point. Later, when you’re discussing complex information, your reader can refer back to the initial problem. This will help to ‘anchor’ them throughout the course of your argument. Every piece of information in the brief should be clearly and easily connected to the problem.

What is the scope of the problem?

Knowing the extent of the problem helps to frame the policy issue for your reader. Is the problem statewide, national, or international? How many people does this issue affect? Daily? Annually? This is a great place for any statistical information you may have gathered through your research.

Who are the stakeholders?

Who does this issue affect? Adult women? College-educated men? Children from bilingual homes? The primary group being affected is important, and knowing who this group is allows the reader to assign a face to the policy issue.

Policy issues can include a complex network of stakeholders. Double check whether you have inadvertently excluded any of them from your analysis. For example, a policy about children’s nutrition obviously involves the children, but it might also include food producers, distributors, parents, and nutritionists (and other experts). Some stakeholders might be reluctant to accept your policy change or even acknowledge the existence of the problem, which is why your brief must be convincing in its use of evidence and clear in its communication.

Effective policy-writing

This handout has emphasized that good policy briefs are clear, concise, and focused on applying credible research to policy problems. Let’s take a look at two versions of the introduction to a policy brief to see how someone might write and revise to achieve these qualities:

A “not-so-good” policy brief

Adolescents’ Dermatologic Health in Outlandia: A Call to Action

The Report on Adolescents’ Dermatologic Health in Outlandia (2010), issued by Secretary of Health Dr. Polly Galver, served as a platform to increase public awareness on the importance of dermatologic health for adolescents. Among the major themes of the report are that dermatologic health is essential to general health and well-being and that profound and consequential dermatologic health disparities exist in the state of Outlandia. Dr. Galver stated that what amounts to a silent epidemic of acne is affecting some population groups–restricting activities as schools, work, and home–and often significantly diminishing the quality of life. Dr. Galver issued the Report on Adolescents’ Dermatologic Health as a wake-up call to policymakers and health professionals on issues regarding the state’s dermatologic health. (“ Not so good policy brief ,” Reproduced with permission of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD.)

This paragraph introduces a relevant and credible source, but it fails to use that source to explain a problem and propose policy action. The reader is likely to be confused because the word “acne” does not appear until the middle of the paragraph, and the brief never states what action should be taken to address it. In addition to this lack of focus, the paragraph also includes unnecessary phrases like “among the major themes” that could be removed to make it more concise.

A better policy brief

Seeing Spots: Addressing the Silent Epidemic of Acne in Outlandia’s Youth

Acne is the most common chronic disease among adolescents in Outlandia (Outlandia Department of Health, 2010). Long considered a benign rite of passage, acne actually has far-reaching effects on the health and well being of adolescents, significantly affecting success in school, social relationships, and general quality of life. Yet large portions of the state’s population are unable to access treatment for acne. The Secretary of Health’s Report on Adolescents’ Dermatologic Health in Outlandia (2010) is a call to action for policymakers and health professionals to improve the health and wellbeing of Outlandia’s youth by increasing access to dermatologic care (“ A Better Policy Brief” , Reproduced with permission of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD.)

This paragraph is far more focused and concise than the first version. The opening sentence is straightforward; instead of focusing on the source, it makes a clear and memorable point that is supported by the source. Additionally, though the first version was titled “a call to action,” it did not actually say what that action might be. In this version, it is clear that the call is for increased access to dermatologic care.

Keep in mind that clarity, conciseness, and consistent focus are rarely easy to achieve in a first draft. Careful editing and revision are key parts of writing policy briefs.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Smith, Catherine F. 2016. Writing Public Policy , 4th ed. New York: Oxford University Press.

Young, Eoin, and Lisa Quinn. n.d. “The Policy Brief.” University of Delaware. Accessed June 24, 2019. https://cpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/blog.lrei.org/dist/c/104/wp-content/uploads/sites/346/2009/11/PolicyBrief-described.pdf .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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How to Write a Policy Analysis Paper in 6 Easy Steps (+Examples)

Working on a policy analysis paper is both challenging and fulfilling. In this article, we'll guide you through the process, whether you're new to the field or experienced. Understanding how policies are made, evaluated, and recommended is crucial for making a difference in public discussions and decisions. We'll cover everything from defining your goals to researching thoroughly, analyzing data, and presenting persuasive arguments. By following these steps, you'll be able to communicate your ideas effectively, shape procedure debates, and contribute to positive changes in society. Should you need more hands-on aid with the assignment, hire a college essay writer for the maximum result.

What Is a Policy Analysis Paper

A policy analysis essay definition is a comprehensive examination and evaluation of a particular policy or set of policies within a given context. It involves analyzing the rationale behind the system, its objectives, implementation strategies, and its intended and unintended consequences. This type of paper aims to provide insights into the effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and feasibility of the approach, often considering various perspectives, stakeholders, and alternatives. Through rigorous research, data analysis, and critical reasoning, procedure analysis papers aim to inform decision-makers, scholars, and the public about the strengths and weaknesses of existing policies and propose recommendations for improvement or alternative courses of action.

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Policy Analysis Paper Purpose

The purpose of a policy analysis paper is to critically assess a specific procedure or set of policies in order to provide valuable insights into its effectiveness, implications, and potential areas for improvement. By examining the underlying rationale, objectives, and outcomes of the implementation, this type of paper aims to inform decision-makers, stakeholders, and the public about its strengths, weaknesses, and impacts on society. 

Students are writing a policy analysis paper in college for several reasons. Firstly, it allows them to develop critical thinking and analytical skills by evaluating real-world policies and their implications. Additionally, it helps students understand the complexities of policy-making processes and how policies impact various stakeholders. Writing analysis papers also enhances research and writing skills, as students must gather and synthesize information from diverse sources to support their arguments effectively. Furthermore, engaging with procedure analysis fosters civic engagement and social responsibility, encouraging students to contribute to public discourse and advocate for evidence-based solutions. Are you dealing with multiple assignments all at the same time? If you’re about to address the audience, say, ‘ write a speech for me ,’ so our experts can relieve your workload.

Topic Ideas for Policy Analysis Paper

Here’s a collection of 50 thought-provoking policy analysis paper topics for your inspiration. In addition, we’d like to offer you informative essay topics for the purpose of learning and self-education.

• The viability of a universal healthcare system: An analysis.
• Plastic bag bans: Environmental implications examined.
• Tax credits for renewable energy adoption: Assessing effectiveness.
• Social security and raising the retirement age: Exploring implications.
• Implementing a four-day workweek: Feasibility assessment.
• Community policing strategies: Effectiveness in crime reduction.
• Increasing the minimum wage: Consequences evaluated.
• School voucher programs: Impact on educational equity.
• Congestion pricing for urban areas: Benefits and drawbacks analyzed.
• Government subsidies for electric vehicles: Effectiveness assessed.
• Zoning laws and affordable housing availability: An investigation.
• National carbon tax: Feasibility and impact explored.
• Mandatory voting laws: Consequences for political participation.
• Drug rehabilitation programs: Effectiveness in reducing recidivism.
• Legalizing marijuana: Public health implications examined.
• Immigration policies and cultural diversity: Assessing impact.
• Privatizing water utilities: Consequences analyzed.
• Anti-bullying policies in schools: Effectiveness evaluated.
• Free college tuition programs: Benefits and drawbacks assessed.
• Wealth tax implementation: Feasibility analysis.
• Ride-sharing services and traditional taxi industries: Impact assessment.
• Gender quotas in corporate leadership: Effectiveness examined.
• National gun registry: Implications and feasibility explored.
• Expanding nuclear energy production: Consequences evaluated.
• Mandatory parental leave policies: Effectiveness assessment.
• Charter school expansion: Impact on public education explored.
• Basic income implementation: Viability and consequences assessed.
• Affordable housing initiatives: Success factors examined.
• Internet privacy regulations: Impact on data security analyzed.
• Corporate tax breaks: Economic implications assessed.
• Universal preschool programs: Long-term benefits explored.
• Climate change adaptation policies: Effectiveness in resilience building.
• Universal voting by mail: Implications for voter turnout examined.
• Reducing military spending: Consequences and feasibility analyzed.
• Workplace diversity training: Effectiveness in promoting inclusivity.
• Renewable energy subsidies: Impact on energy independence assessed.
• Telecommuting incentives: Feasibility and impact on traffic analyzed.
• Carbon capture and storage initiatives: Viability and effectiveness.
• Local food sourcing policies: Benefits for communities examined.
• Police body camera mandates: Impact on accountability assessed.
• Community land trust programs: Success factors and limitations.
• Mental health parity laws: Effectiveness in improving access.
• Corporate social responsibility regulations: Impact on sustainability.
• Universal pre-kindergarten education: Social and economic benefits.
• Land value tax implementation: Impact on property markets assessed.
• Affordable childcare initiatives: Impact on workforce participation.
• Smart city technology investments: Benefits for urban development.
• Flexible work hour policies: Impact on productivity and well-being.
• Prescription drug pricing regulations: Consequences for affordability.
• Public-private partnerships for infrastructure development: Effectiveness and risks assessed.

If you need more ideas, you may want to consult our guide on argumentative essay topics , which will definitely help kickstart your creativity. 

How to Structure a Policy Analysis Paper

A policy analysis paper format demands organizing your content coherently and logically to effectively communicate your analysis and findings. Here's a typical structure you can follow:

Introduction

• Provide an overview of the issue or problem you're analyzing.
• Clearly state the purpose of your analysis.
• Introduce the policy or policies under review.
• Provide background information to contextualize the issue.
• State your thesis or research question.

Policy Context and Background

• Provide more in-depth background information on the issue.
• Describe the historical development of the policies.
• Discuss the context in which the procedure was implemented.
• Identify key stakeholders and their interests in the strategy.

Policy Analysis Framework

• Explain the framework or methodology you're using to analyze the policy.
• Define key concepts and terms relevant to your analysis.
• Discuss any theoretical frameworks or models guiding your analysis.
• Outline the criteria or criteria you will use to evaluate the procedure's effectiveness.

Policy Goals and Objectives

• Identify and discuss the stated goals and objectives of the policy.
• Evaluate the clarity and coherence of these goals.
• Discuss any potential conflicts or contradictions among the goals.

Policy Implementation

• Describe how the policy has been implemented in practice.
• Discuss any challenges or barriers to implementation.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of implementation strategies.

Policy Outcomes and Impacts

• Assess the outcomes and impacts of the policy.
• Evaluate the extent to which the procedure has achieved its intended goals.
• Discuss any unintended consequences or side effects of the approach.

Policy Alternatives

• Identify and discuss alternative policy options or approaches.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each alternative.
• Discuss the potential trade-offs associated with each alternative.

Recommendations

• Based on your analysis, provide recommendations for policymakers.
• Discuss specific actions or changes that could improve the process.
• Justify your recommendations with evidence from your analysis.
• Summarize the main findings of your analysis.
• Restate your thesis or research question.
• Reflect on the broader implications of your analysis.
• Discuss any limitations or areas for further research.
• Provide a list of sources cited in your paper.
• Follow the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

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How to Write a Policy Analysis Paper

In this section, we'll cover the basics of writing a policy analysis paper. This type of paper involves breaking down complicated policy issues, figuring out how well they're working, and suggesting ways to make them better. We'll walk you through the steps, like defining the goals of the implementation, looking at how it's being put into action, and checking what effects it's having. By the end, you'll have the skills to write a clear, well-reasoned paper that can help shape policies for the better. 

Understanding the Policy Issue

Start by thoroughly understanding the policy issue or problem you're analyzing. Research its background, context, and significance. Identify key stakeholders, relevant laws or regulations, and any existing policies addressing the issue.

Defining the Scope and Purpose

Clearly define the scope and purpose of your analysis. Determine what specific aspect of the approach you'll focus on and why it's important. Clarify the goals of your analysis and what you hope to achieve with your paper. Use an expert essay writing service to streamline your effort in producing a first-class paper. 

Gathering Data and Evidence

Collect relevant data and evidence to support your analysis. This may include statistical information, case studies, expert opinions, and academic research. Use credible sources and ensure your data is accurate and up-to-date.

Analyzing the Policy

A policy analysis paper evaluates the legislative program’s effectiveness, strengths, weaknesses, and implications. Use a structured approach, such as a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) or cost-benefit analysis, to assess the procedure from multiple perspectives. Consider its intended goals, implementation strategies, outcomes, and unintended consequences. If you need help with SWOT analysis, using our analytical essay writing service is highly recommended. 

Developing Recommendations

Based on your analysis, develop clear and actionable recommendations for policymakers or stakeholders. Identify specific changes or improvements that could enhance the system’s effectiveness or address its shortcomings. Support your recommendations with evidence and reasoning.

Writing and Communicating Your Analysis

Organize your analysis into a coherent and persuasive paper. Structure your paper with an introduction, background information, analysis, recommendations, and conclusion. Use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon or technical terms unless necessary. Provide citations for your sources and evidence. Finally, ensure your paper is well-written, logically organized, and effectively communicates your insights and recommendations.

Policy Analysis Paper Example

A policy analysis paper example serves as a valuable learning tool for students by providing a concrete model to follow and reference when undertaking their own analysis assignments. By studying an example paper, students can gain insights into the structure, content, and methodology of analysis, helping them understand how to effectively frame their analysis, support their arguments with evidence, and formulate actionable recommendations.

Example 1: “Implementing Universal Basic Income”

This policy analysis paper examines the feasibility and potential impacts of implementing a Universal Basic Income (UBI) program in the United States. It explores various options for UBI design, including cost and financing considerations, labor market effects, poverty reduction potential, and administrative feasibility. By reviewing existing evidence and debates surrounding UBI, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with adopting such a program, ultimately highlighting the need for careful analysis, experimentation, and stakeholder engagement in shaping effective UBI policies.

Example 2: “Addressing Climate Change through Carbon Pricing”

This policy analysis paper examines the role of carbon pricing policies in addressing climate change, evaluating their efficacy, implementation challenges, and potential impacts. Carbon pricing mechanisms, including carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems, aim to internalize the external costs of carbon emissions and incentivize emission reductions. The paper discusses the economic efficiency of carbon pricing in promoting innovation and investment in clean technologies while also addressing equity considerations regarding its distributional impacts on low-income households and vulnerable communities.

Writing a policy analysis paper is super important for students because it helps them learn how to tackle tough societal problems and make smart decisions. You get to sharpen your thinking skills, learn how to research thoroughly and become better at expressing yourself clearly. Plus, writing these papers helps students practice effectively communicating their ideas, which is a skill they'll need in their future careers, whether they work in government, nonprofits, or elsewhere. By digging into real-world issues, students also get a better grip on how politics, economics, and society all fit together. If you’re not committed to handling this task yourself, instruct our experts, saying, ‘ write my essay ,’ and receive the most competent help within hours. 

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What Is a Policy Analysis Paper Outline?

How to write a policy analysis paper, what is a policy analysis paper.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Policy writing overview

Tips and tricks for writing a policy paper that makes an impact

by Wiebke Ewering and Claudia Wessling

In this guide, the authors share some tips and tricks for writing impactful policy papers. They list questions that you need to ask yourself before you begin to write and provide practical tips for structuring and writing a policy paper.

Wiebke Ewering

Head of press and communications at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP)

Wiebke Ewering is the head of the press and communications department at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), where she oversees all aspects of external communication. With extensive experience in press and public relations, Wiebke has previously worked for organizations such as the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) in Berlin, the Dahrendorf Forum at the Hertie School of Governance and London School of Economics, and the Franco-German Youth Office. She holds a double Master's degree in Political Science and European Studies from Freie Universität Berlin and Sciences Po Paris, as well as a Bachelor's degree from the University of Osnabrück and the Université de Montréal.   

Claudia Wessling

Director of Communications and Publications at MERICS

Claudia Wessling leads communications and publications at Mercator Institute for China Studies (MERICS). She is a seasoned journalist and Asia expert focusing on China and Indonesia. Prior to joining MERICS, Claudia was an editor and correspondent for German politics at news agency Agence France-Presse in Berlin. Also a freelance science reporter, she specializes in mathematics, information technology, and digitalization, and has written for publications such as Heise Technology Review, Tagesspiegel, and Handelsblatt. She studied Chinese, Indonesian, and economics in Bonn, Wuhu and Yogyakarta, and science journalism in Berlin.

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A Political Science Guide

For students, researchers, and others interested in doing the work of political science.

Policy Paper

What is a policy paper.

Policy papers are different from the standard research papers in several respects:

• They are usually addressed at a non-academic audience , such as a particular official, agency, or organization
• They often focus on prescriptive questions. They may begin by diagnosing a particular issue or situation, and typically argue for a solution that will address that issue or situation
• Often, policy papers are focused on being persuasive . The intention is to convince the target audience that your position is the correct one.
• Evidence in support of a position is crucial. This is also important for research papers, but it tends to be absolutely critical in policy papers.
• Policy papers are written efficiently. The audience often does not have much time and does not want to read a book on the subject. Indeed, often policy papers are accompanied by policy briefs which summarize the papers in a page or less.

Policy Paper Components

As with research papers, there is not just one way to write a policy paper.The University of Texas has a nice website with a detailed model, “Suggestions for Writing Policy Analysis” .

The basic elements of a policy paper include:

• It is helpful to careful define the problem and frame it as a specific question to be answered.
• These are the choices for addressing the policy problem.
• This is the step that often is missed in policy analysis. Writers often fail to be explicit and may even assume that everyone shares the same ideas of what the criteria for making a choice should be. This is a mistake. Indeed, it is an important service to the reader (and to the decision-maker) to know the reasons for recommending one policy (or set of policies) over others. There often is major debate about criteria that should be used.
•   In his book, A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis , Eurgene Bardach helpfully notes that such criteria are best thought of as applied to “the projected outcomes ” of a policy choice. He makes the useful distinction between evaluative criteria, such as efficiency and fairness, and practical criteria, such as legality and political acceptability.
• Ideally, the policy recommendation should flow from the logical application of your criteria to your policy choices. This is illustrated in the hypothetical example (see table) below.
• In this example, the researcher was able to make clear outcomes about how the policy choices met some criteria (Policy Choice A fails to meet the first criteria of legality). However, it there is some uncertainty about others. For instance, it is unclear how Policy Choice B would affect the criteria of inclusiveness, or how to judge the cost effectiveness of Policy Choice C. In the real world, we may need to incorporate such uncertainty into our policy judgments. But it is important for the policy analyst to be clear to readers and decision-makers where that uncertainty exists.
• Another thing to note is that not all criteria are equal. It may be useful to rank the importance of criteria. Many of us would likely consider legality a necessary criterion. This would allow us to immediately remove Policy Choice A from our list of choices without any further consideration.

Policy Paper Examples

• Peterson Institute for International Economics. “Policy Briefs”
• UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy. “Working Paper Series.”
• Many articles in the journal Foreign Affairs are policy papers.
• Oxfam International. “Policy & Research.”
• Bardach, Eugene and Eric M. Patashnik. 2015. A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis: The Eightfold Path to More Effective Problem Solving. CQ Press.
• Eóin Young and Lisa Quinn. “Writing Effective Policy Papers: A guide for policy advisers in Central and Eastern Europe.” Open Society Institute .
• “The Policy Analysis Process”, Professor Michelle A. Saint-Germain (CSULB)
• Overseas Development Institute. “Writing Policy Papers.”
• UN Food and Agriculture Organization. “Writing Effective Reports, Section 4: Preparing Policy Briefs”
• “How to inform policy makers in a briefing memo or opinion”
• “Tasks for writing briefing memos or opinions”
• Checklists for communicating the policy process

updated July 12, 2017 – MN

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How to Write a Policy Assignment

What is a policy assignment, policy critique.

• Policy Brief/Briefing Note

Reading and Analyzing Policy

Writing policy assignments, research and writing process.

Understanding, evaluating, and writing policy documents are important competencies to develop as undergraduate students in a wide range of fields, spanning from Health Care to Environmental Science to Education. Policy is informed by strong research and accurate evidence, often compiled and presented by government and non-governmental organizations. Public policies include formal legislation, official plans, and regulations created by various levels of government. Each of these can act as guiding principles for governmental decision making and program delivery. Non-governmental and para-governmental organizations publish policy briefs, commission reports, and fact sheets to inform policy makers and recommend policy change.

Course instructors often ask students to analyze policy documents to better understand issues and policy alternatives, and students in many disciplines must write policy documents, including critiques and briefs or briefing notes. This guide offers steps to reading policy and keys for effective policy writing.

Types of Policy Assignments

In a policy critique, students are expected to read and critically analyze one or more policy documents that address a common issue. The goal of this assignment is to present an overall assessment of current or proposed policies and their efficacy or potential considering both scholarly theory and real-world, practical application with consideration of environmental, social, or economic contexts.

Proposed structure

• Issue: what is the policy in question?
• Background: where did it emerge? What problem does it try to address?
• Application: so far, based on evidence, how effective has it been?
• Limits: what are limits with the policy? How has it been adapted? What questions remain?
• Evaluation/potential: based on concepts and theories from course materials, what is the potential for this policy to address particular issue/problem?

Policy Brief (Briefing Note)

Policy briefs or briefing notes are documents written by governmental and non-governmental organizations to propose evidence-based policy solutions to a well-defined social, environmental, or economic issue. Briefs present findings from academic and grey literature to demonstrate the scope of an issue and to analyze its context and background. The brief is organized with clear headings and short sections, which are supported by figures or tables.

• Executive Summary: similar to an abstract, briefly explains the goal, findings, and recommendations. Although it is placed first in the document, it is written last.
• Issue Definition: identify and explain the key issue and its scope and significance.
• Policy Background: synthesize evidence to explain the context of the issue – its origins, key stakeholders, overlapping issues, and potential barriers – and any existing policy.
• Best Practices: describe relevant policies from other jurisdictions and introduce specific examples of policy and best practices that reinforce the argument your briefing note presents.
• Policy Options: synthesize your research to present a few policy options; for each option, describe the approach and present advantages, challenges, and potential barriers. Present one policy recommendation from these options.
• References: divide references into sections (e.g., academic sources, grey literature, policy documents etc.)

Each policy document is focused on a specific issue and establishes particular goals; when you read any policy document, you are working to understand and analyze the issue and how the policy addresses the issue. These messages are often presented in different ways. Policy briefs are, well, brief, but other policy documents or commissioned reports can be quite lengthy, so it is important to develop a reading strategy for each new document. Generally, it is best to follow this process: preview, plan, read and take notes, and assess within course context.

Because policy documents vary significantly in form and purpose, it is essential to preview the document prior to reading it: identify its author, its purpose, and its form. Take time to read the executive summary, which presents a short explanation of the issue and purpose of the document. Understand its authorship and the interests of the individual or organizational author.

Make a plan

Identify your goal in reading the document: do you wish to better understand the issue, to identify policy alternatives, to appreciate broader context, or to determine efficacy of policy? How will this document inform your understanding of the issue you are studying? What sections will be most useful or relevant?

Read and take notes

Your preview and plan can direct your reading and notetaking. Read closely to understand the policy or issue, its context, and the evidence used to support it. Identify stakeholders and their interests, the goals of the policy and how those goals are measurable and actionable. You may find it helpful to refer to the table of contents or index (or to use the ‘find’ tool in your browser) to seek out sections that contain relevant keywords in documents spanning more than 100 pages.

Assess policy within course context

Refer to theories, frameworks, and indices that you have discussed in class to assess a policy. Consider whether it follows a particular conceptual framework or achieves particular numerical targets. Compare it to other policies in similar contexts and analyze its parts to assess its adaptability to different contexts. Evaluate its fit to the specific issue and its relevance for various stakeholder needs or values.

Reading an Official Plan

An official plan is often a lengthy document that covers many topics and issues within a set of overarching goals for an organization, like a university, hospital, or municipality. Your aim should be to understand the overarching goals of the plan and its broader context, which are likely laid out in the executive summary and introductory sections. Then you may need to seek out references to a particular topic, issue, or stakeholder; the index, table of contents, or “find” tool can be helpful for this.

Reading a Policy Brief

The goal of a policy brief is to inform and persuade policy makers, so your aim should be to understand the issue the brief identifies and to analyze the policy it proposes. The structure and design of the policy brief will guide your reading. Take time to understand the context of the issue and the policy: who are the stakeholders, what are the goals, what is the process, and what are the barriers? Analyze the policy within the disciplinary concepts you’re learning in class; how does the policy fit particular frameworks, theories, or indices you’ve discussed? What is unique about this policy? How can this policy be adapted to different contexts? What is its potential to address the issue?

Successful policy assignments are focused, well-researched, analytical, organized, and concise. Therefore, it is important to take time to define the issue, understand the context of the issue, and seek out policy alternatives prior to identifying a recommended course of action.

• Focused Issue
• Using Research
• Demonstrating Analysis
• Organized, Concise, and Clear Writing

Focused issue

It is essential that you present a focused and clear issue, and that issue must be at the scale of policy action. For example, policy briefs can address ER wait times or agricultural pesticide use, but issues such as access to health care or the sustainability of food production are too complex for you to address in a short policy assignment. Often, course material and core concepts provide useful direction for you to narrow your issue.

In policy assignments, an issue is clearly defined and contextualized with evidence from scholarly and grey literature. It is important for you to explain how scholars, governments, or NGOs have discussed the issue, and numerical data or figures can demonstrate the scale of an issue or its projected trajectory. Provide details about the issue in its context: be specific about place, time, and stakeholders, and acknowledge any overlapping economic, environmental, or social issues.

Example: Effective issue definition 1

Age-friendly municipalities foster solidarity among generations within communities and reach out to older people at risk of isolation by making them feel socially included and involved (WHO, 2007). It is well documented that these trends are happening across Canada, and evidence suggests that local governments have a key role in enabling older people to live longer. It is unclear to what degree Aurora’s municipal government is prepared to support its expanding ageing population. It is essential to continue to examine new approaches to housing and transportation infrastructure within Aurora in order to improve public policy matters in regards to their ageing population.

• Issue is grounded by focused concept and evidence; writer demonstrates value of municipal policy to address the issue
• Writer precisely identifies the issue to be discussed in brief and the goals of the report

Example: Ineffective issue definition 1

In addition to the infrastructure issue in Peterborough, there is also an issue regarding how spread out the community is. The city is too big for residents to be able to walk the entire city. Amenities are also very spread out; it is unlikely that pedestrians would be able to access the required amenities within walking distance from their house. Ultimately, the main issues surrounding the walkability in the City of Peterborough are the lack of infrastructure and maintenance, as well as the lack of available activities near to peoples’ residences.

• Not grounded in conceptual framework or theory; writer needs to explain why walkability is an issue that a municipality should address
• Lack of precision or evidence to support claims about the size of the city or accessibility to amenities

Using research

Policy is informed by evidence from scholarly literature, government data, and research by various stakeholder organizations. Effective policy assignments synthesize evidence from academic and grey literature to create an accurate account of the issue and policy options. Common forms of evidence in policy writing include numerical and financial data, figures such as graphs and maps, excerpts from existing policies, recommendations from NGOs, and conceptual frameworks.

In policy writing, your goal is to present research both accurately and accessibly, as decision-makers in government and business may not be familiar with terminology or concepts presented by scholars. Make efforts to paraphrase the evidence you use and be sure to include citations in the form requested by your professor (footnotes or author-date systems are common).

One of the key factors in Municipal Cultural Planning is increasing cross-sectoral strategies by building new partnerships “…between the municipality and its community and business partners” (Municipal Cultural Plan, toolkit, 2011, p.21) for long term sustainability. Therefore, municipal cultural planning “…does not look at policy sectorally” (Gollmitzer, 2008, p.18), but instead strengthens and integrates “…cultural resources across all facets of government planning and decision making” (Municipal Cultural Plan Toolkit, 2011, p.21). Building new networks are supported by leveraging the sense of place within a community. Adopting a place-based planning approach allows “…government, community organizations and citizens to explore, measure and asses the values, resources and assets of the community” (Huhtala, 2016, p.66), in order to leverage them for economic prosperity.

• Writer synthesizes academic and grey literature to demonstrate how concepts are applied in policy.
• Writer also demonstrates analysis of evidence and its relevance to the brief’s focused issue.
• Use of direct quotation can feature the language of a policy if the writer wishes to analyze discourse; however, this excerpt relies too heavily on direct quotation, and it would be stronger if this evidence was paraphrased.

Demonstrating analysis

The quality of your policy assignment is closely tied to your analysis of the issue and the policy options you present. It is important to evaluate policy options as you research and to critically analyze how those options address the issue within its particular context. Take time to examine specific factors and parties involved in an issue and consider how these factors may facilitate or challenge each policy option; furthermore, you should also assess the advantages and disadvantages of each policy option and its impacts on these factors or parties.

You may find it valuable to consider theories, concepts, or frameworks from your course to develop your argument and to establish coherence throughout your assignment. If you assess all policy options through the same critical lens or theory, then your message will be clear and consistent throughout your document.

Integrating senior housing into the fabric of the inner core communities could make housing developments viable and situate seniors in settings where they can access these services by foot or nearby transit (Fang, 2013).  This concept can allow seniors, who may be considering downsizing, to remain within their community where they can keep active, live within easy access to medical and community services, and stay close to their support network that they have spent their lives establishing. However, the growing demand for these developments could put major pressure on the municipality.  City officials would have to amend current zoning by-laws to allow commercial and residential uses to be a part of mixed-use development and appropriate provisions need to be provided to ensure compatibility and to minimize potential negative impacts. 

• Writer presents both advantages and challenges of policy option within common concept of healthy aging communities.
• Writer also includes potential impacts and barriers of policy option, which demonstrates their consideration of the issue and its context.

Organized, concise, and clear writing

Policy writing should be well-organized and easy to follow. Use headings and subheadings to create structure and to support your reader. It is common to number sections and subsections to further clarify the order of your ideas. In addition, good paragraph structure also supports organization and clarity, so we encourage you to use specific topic sentences to introduce the main idea of a paragraph.

Well-written policy assignments employ a formal writing style and use third-person voice (e.g., they) rather than first-person (e.g., I, we) or second-person (e.g., you) voice. Further, they avoid jargon, but use specific and clear language. When you revise your draft, take time to consider each sentence and remove repetitive or redundant phrases and words.

Finally, it is important to pay attention to the details. Label any figures or tables in your document; make reference to these figures or tables in the text of your work (e.g., see Figure 1). Also be sure to follow assignment instructions for referencing evidence in your text (e.g., footnotes or author-date system) and in your list of sources, which is often categorized by type of source (e.g., academic, government, NGOs).

There are many ways to approach a policy assignment, but it is important to take time to research and analyze issues and policy options thoroughly prior to writing. Consider the following steps to complete your policy assignment:

• Read assignment instructions closely
• Preliminary research: review course materials, brainstorm, conduct environmental scan or site visit, consider current issues relevant to course concepts
• Define issue: consider questions and frameworks
• Research issue and context
• Research and evaluate policy alternatives in other places
• Analyze policy alternatives and consider fit for current issue and context; select policy options to present
• Outline sections: what evidence goes where? How does evidence work together?
• Write sections (leave Executive Summary until last)
• Revise for organization, analysis, and use of evidence. See Strategies for Revision and Proofreading.
• Edit for clarity, concision, and grammar
• Complete final proof of document
• These examples are not to be reproduced in whole or part. Use of the ideas or words in this example is an act of plagiarism, which is subject to academic integrity policy at Trent University and other academic institutions.

Sample Public Policy Personal Statement (Harvard, Brown, Erasmus Mundus)

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following essay is written by an applicant who got accepted to top graduate programs in public policy (MPP). Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Brown University, Harvard’s Kennedy School, UC Berkeley and Erasmus Mundus scholarship program. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in public policy should look like.

Related Personal Statement:  Sample Public Administration Personal Statement (MPA)

Here is the example personal statement for MPP

I grew up in Monrovia. People here are resourceful and hardworking, but many live in crushing poverty with little opportunity for upward mobility. Like many rural towns in Liberia, the overwhelming needs of the public are neglected by paradigmatically dysfunctional bureaucracies. So when I was in high school, I thought getting a degree wouldd lift me beyond my humble background. But a strange thing happened while I was doing my undergrad. I found that many people around me, including my professors, were using their education to improve the lives of people living in places like Monrovia.

As a result, education became about empowerment – giving me the language to diagnose social issues. It gave me the understanding to recognize fulcrum points in political hierarchies and the skills to research, propose, and implement strategies for improving social policies. Finally, it gave me the heart and the will to take on the difficult task of making a better life for Liberians in need.

My goal is to become a policy analyst for the government. This position would allow me to promote and implement innovative educational, health, and social welfare policies. I have looked at many schools, but I have found very few that seem as aptly suited to my educational goals as Brown. The course offerings support specialization while allowing room for meaningful electives. Institutions and Policy Making is exactly that kind.

I need to expand my theoretical and practical concepts of social policy and welfare in developing countries. Most impressive to me is the number of faculty who are not just teachers but policy practitioners. For example, Professor John Tyler’s work on returns to education is impressive and shares themes with my thesis research: Economics of Education. In addition, I believe the diverse university culture at Brown will promote my concepts of global culture, practices, and ethics.

A graduate degree is essential to my goal of affecting multiple dimensions of policy in Liberia. I have worked on this goal from the beginning of my undergraduate degree. During my first few semesters, I realized how a shortage of skilled professionals inside public offices had undermined Liberia’s development for a long time. I saw that policy framework serve as ‘paradigms,’ dictating a country’s growth and development rules. I looked for courses that could build on this understanding and help me formulate realistic ideas for improving the status quo.

Courses on policy issues explained how unequal growth patterns in a country could destroy class mobility and quality of life. Economics provided an area of study that brought all these social and political factors together in one implementable philosophy. The more I learned, the more I saw how a small innovation could go a long way in places like Monrovia. I also began to understand that properly implementing this support is key to its success.

I found many others who shared my interests in the Economics department during my undergrad, including Dr. Mishu Pati and Dr. Cmeha Konaya. Both Professors are extremely active in their field, contributing cutting-edge research in trade and education policy, healthcare, and governance. I was immediately impressed with the scope and focus of their ideas. However, only after a few semesters of academic exposure and experience with internships, I realized the most impressive aspect of their work: it was theoretically impressive and implementable.

Working with Dr. Mishu Pati, I discovered my passion and appreciation for research. As a result, I completed three major research projects during my undergraduate degree. Each addressed a unique and important aspect of economic policy across various social influences. First, I studied inefficient pricing mechanisms in the wheat industry that translate into inflated prices. Furthermore, as part of my thesis, I studied economic returns to secondary education, especially regarding the acquired human capital and associated externalities that have a bearing on social well-being. Finally, the most influential and accomplished study allowed me to work with the Trade Development Authority of Liberia (TDAL) to improve export statistics for sanitary and phyto-sanitary handling of citrus fruit. Upon the conclusion of this project, my findings were presented to the officials at TDAL.

After graduation, I started working with Dr. Nakhai Abramozid, an esteemed Public Policy professor in Liberia. As a Research Assistant, I am currently studying livestock micro-insurance, a concept still developing in Liberia that requires the attention of academics and practitioners. Micro-insurance provides low-income families with risk-averse methods to increase their financial independence and fosters growth in their enterprises. Therefore, I was especially excited when I discovered that there are currently only two pilot projects in Liberia.

My RAship analyzes these pilots and advises potential micro-insurance providers and other stakeholders. This experience has allowed me to stay connected with policy practitioners and academics by ensuring continued interaction in the field of Public Policy. It has also put me at the forefront of a developing policy that is beginning to show a lot of promise.

Since I have kept a clear direction and set of goals throughout most of my undergraduate degree, I have been able to do a lot to develop and grow my understanding of public policy, research, and ethics. I have undertaken extra responsibility whenever possible and focused my education on my goals. And yet, imagining all the experiences, classes, and projects I will be able to undertake at Brown University makes me feel like I still have so far to go.

Nevertheless, the holistic skill set developed in the Public Policy program will allow me to pursue my goals. I want to be equipped with a deep understanding of policy analysis, project management, financial management, and technology integration. I wish I had more opportunities to talk with you about the difference Brown would make in my education and the difference my education can make to the underserved people in Liberia.

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How to Write a Policy Essay for a Fellowship Application

By ProFellow Founder, Dr. Vicki Johnson

Many fellowships, funding awards, and graduate programs in the field of public policy and policy analysis request a policy essay as a component of the applicant. This is common for professional fellowships where policy analysis and research are part of the fellowship activities. A policy essay for an application is typically 1-3 pages and outlines a persuasive argument in favor or against an existing policy, or an argument for a new policy, or an explanation of how a social challenge could be addressed through policy. This part of the application is a test of your skills – both your persuasive writing skills and your critical analysis skills.

Some fellowships that require a policy essay as part of the application include the Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship , a professional fellowship that provides college graduates with the opportunity to work at a Washington, DC-based policy think tank focused on key issues of peace and security. It’s also required by the Meridian Institute Fellowship , an opportunity for early-career professionals to work with the Meridian Institute, a mission-driven, non-profit organization that develops and implement solutions to complicated social problems.

Here’s an example of the policy essay prompt from the Meridian Institute Fellowship application: 

“Meridian works on a variety of social and environmental policy issues including agriculture and food systems, climate change, environment, and natural resources, forest, health, oceans and coasts, resilience, science and technology, and water. Briefly describe a critical public policy issue facing society today and suggest how a collaborative process could be effective in helping address that issue. If applicable, include details about which parties should be engaged and what challenges might be faced in trying to bring them together. Please limit responses to one page only.”

I’d like to provide some key application tips on preparing a successful policy essay for a fellowship or graduate school application.

Tip 1: Write on a policy topic that is aligned with the organization’s mission and focus areas

Before you choose a policy topic to write on, it’s important that you understand the mission of the funding body, whether that is the fellowship organization, a graduate school, or the organization where you would be hosted as a Fellow. This is to ensure that you choose a policy topic that is within the scope of the funding body’s work and will be understood and appreciated by the selection committee. You can research the funding body’s mission by looking at the organization’s mission statement, values and history. You can also get clues about the program’s mission by reviewing their specific areas of focus, the partners that they work with, and the projects that they have initiated or funded recently. 

Tip 2: Choose a topic you are familiar with

A policy essay for a competitive application is not a good place to “dip your toes” into a brand new subject you have no knowledge of! A strong policy essay will demonstrate your knowledge of the issue. I recommend choosing a policy topic you have engaged with through coursework,  professional work, or volunteerism. If you have read recent news, journal articles, and policy papers on the subject, you will be better equipped to write a persuasive argument. If you are struggling to choose a topic, reach out to a current or former professor or colleagues in the field for advice on policy essay topics that are timely. 

Tip 3: Choose a niche subject, rather than a broad subject 

When you have only a page or two to express your ideas about a policy topic, it can be easier – and more memorable – to choose a highly specific and niche subject to write on. For example, rather than write a policy essay on a policy to address “global climate change challenges”, choose something more focused such as a policy that addresses “the impact of climate change on aquifers in California”. You’ll find it easier to find and summarize the current science of a niche subject needed to support your argument. Also, a niche topic is also more memorable to readers!

Tip 4: Determine if your essay is an argument, proposal, or another format

Some applications will request an argumentative essay, where you need to express both sides of the issue and end with your argument in favor of one side. Other policy essay prompts will request that you propose a policy change or solution, supported by evidence. There can be other formats and expectations for policy essays! Read the essay prompt questions carefully to understand what outline is needed. A great way to get insights into what the selection committee is looking for is to connect with current and former fellows for their advice. 

Tip 5: Start with an outline 

I always start with an outline before drafting a policy essay or personal statement. A one-page essay is about 5 paragraphs, so you’ll want to outline in advance the flow of your essay and consider how much space you have to make your argument. For an argumentative policy essay, a suggested outline could be:

• Paragraph 1: Overview of the current policy challenge
• Paragraph 2: Arguments in favor of the policy
• Paragraph 3: Arguments against the policy
• Paragraph 4: Your perspective on the issue
• Paragraph 5: Conclusion: your choice of side and why

For the Meridian Institute Fellowship prompt above, I would suggest a different outline:

• Paragraph 1: Overview of one specific (niche) public policy issue facing society today
• Paragraph 2: Description of the parties most impacted by this issue (people, institutions, ecosystems, etc)
• Paragraph 3: Discussion of the institutions that should be involved in addressing this issue (e.g. corporations, government agencies, non-profits, community groups, researchers, etc)
• Paragraph 4: Description of some of the challenges faced in trying to bring these stakeholders together to solve the challenge
• Paragraph 5: Your proposal to develop a collaborative process that brings these groups together

Even with limited word count, it’s important that you use specific examples to express ideas rather than generalizations. For example, within a policy essay on “the impact of climate change on aquifers in California”, you could discuss statistics regarding reduced snowfall, or California cities and counties challenged by reservoir management or new technologies that are showing promise in addressing the issue. This will require your reading of recent publications, news articles, and reports on the subject. Most early-career opportunities do not expect you to be an expert on the subject, but they do want to see that you’ve done your research.

Final advice: Cite your sources of information if necessary

You may need to cite sources in the policy essay. I suggest doing this inline (e.g. “The 2021 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states…”). You can also have a brief reference list at the end of the essay. Be sure to check with the fellowship organization that a reference list will not be considered as part of your word limit. 

Seeking more resources on preparing a winning fellowship application? Check out:

How to Answer “Why”: 3 Tips for Fellowship Applicants

What Makes a Great Personal Statement?

How to Write an Effective Diversity Statement for Graduate School

How to Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter for Any Opportunity  

3 Keys to Developing a Winning Research Proposal for Fellowships and Grants

Good luck! The ProFellow community is rooting for you!

© Victoria Johnson / ProFellow, LLC 2020, all rights reserved

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How to write a persuasive policy brief

By Sandra Naranjo Bautista

A persuasive policy brief allows you to formulate and influence policy. It’s how you upwardly manage to get policy ideas through. The clarity, tone and sharpness of your words will allow you to contribute to positive policy outcomes, even if you are not the decision-maker. How to craft the perfect policy brief?

Before writing anything, ask yourself why it needs to be written and what do you want the Minister to do. The best policy briefs are those that are needed and have a purpose. Start there.

The three questions a persuasive policy brief must answer

What is it for.

This is the purpose or the intention of the brief you are writing. It can be to inform an issue, to recommend a course of action, or to brief a Minister before an interview or meeting. Keep that objective in mind as the north star of your document.

Why it matters?

A Minister receives multiple documents daily. Why should they care about this particular brief? Why is it important for them? Not you. Answering these questions will put you in the right mindset and help you be persuasive and helpful.

Plan your structure and start with the most important thing, the recommendation. Go straight to the point. If there is any urgency, say it explicitly indicating deadlines and a reason to take action by that date. If a course of action should be taken, argue why and show evidence to make your case.

What next? (The most important one)

This is what you want the Minister to do and the main reason why the Minister should read your brief. The action that needs to be taken has to be clearly stated in the recommendation at the top of the document (See the templates for guidance here ).

Three common mistakes to avoid

Giving too much or too little information.

This is a common tension when writing a policy brief. I’ve been on both sides, writing and reading policy briefs. If it’s too long the Minister would miss the main point. If it’s too short the decision maker would ask for more details.

As a general rule, the shorter the better. Ideally, a recommendation box within one page with relevant information, and attachments if needed. Paraphrasing Antoine de Saint-Exupery the ‘right length’ is achieved not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.

Assuming the person that’s reading the document knows it all.

Provide enough context that’s relevant to the point you want to make.  Remember this would be one of the many documents the Minister would have to read. Assume general knowledge of the issues but not to the level of detail you might have. A synopsis is all that’s needed. Keep your text to high-level policy issues considering the political dimensions of your recommendation (Go back to the strategic triangle as a reference point).

Being ambiguous

Own what you say. Rest assured that you are doing everything to the best of your ability. Provide all the information that’s relevant to make a decision in a clear (avoid jargon), objective and succinct way.  Be specific on your recommendation of the best course of action and sustain your recommendation. 

How to structure a persuasive policy brief?

Start with the recommendation. It should be self-explanatory so that if nothing else is read, the Minister will know exactly what to do, why and by when.

The minutes will contain more information to sustain the recommendation. Provide context to the issue, define the scope of the problem, discuss policy alternatives, and give more detailed recommendations of a course of action. Remember, this is not a table of contents to the attachment. It’s the essence of what you are saying. The attachments will provide additional details if needed, but assume they won’t be read.  

To make it easier I’ve prepared some templates that can help you structure your policy briefs and provide guidance on how to communicate key ideas. I’ve also added additional resources that could be helpful.

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

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Public Policy Essay: Meaning, Components, and Structure

Public policy essay writing provides an atmosphere for people to make significant contributions to the advancement of society by acting as links between ideas and deeds. Regardless of whether you are a student, policymaker, or just interested in the dynamics of influencing the public conversation, you must comprehend the intricacies of writing compelling essays that serve purpose and clarity. However, we know that it is tough for students to write such essays on their own. This is why we have brought you a comprehensive guide where we break down public policy essays by exploring their deep meaning, breaking down key components, and structure. This blog curated by All Assignment Help will clear all your doubts regarding a public policy essay.

So let’s get started!

What Is a Public Policy Essay?

A public policy essay is an essential resource for anyone looking to have a meaningful conversation about the laws that form their society. This written analysis goes deeper into the complexities, consequences, and possible solutions to policy issues, going beyond their obvious surface level.

A public policy essay is essentially a thoughtful, well-researched analysis that breaks down a specific policy, covering its background, guiding ideas, and practical implications. Moreover, this type of writing enables authors to express not just their opinions about particular policies but also suggestions for reforms or alternate courses of action.

Furthermore, a public policy essay offers a chance for people to participate in the continuing conversation about societal issues and the policies that attempt to address them. However, writing an essay on a public policy topic requires a lot of time and effort, and yet students fail to write a well-researched essay on their own. Hence, we suggest that they should seek online essay writing services where they will be assisted by professional essay writers who will work according to their needs.

Read Here: Personal Essay- Examples, Structure, and Writing Tips

Key Components of a Public Policy Essay

Although writing a public policy essay requires precise organization and planning in order to convey your thoughts clearly. The following are the key components that you should include in your public policy essay writing:

Introduction

• Describe the background of the topic or subject you are discussing.
• Give a clear explanation of your essay’s major point or goal.

The Problem Statement

• Give a precise definition of the topic or problem your essay is trying to solve.
• Justify its importance and the need for attention.

Overview of Policy

• Describe the public policy that you will be talking about.
• Give a brief overview of the goals, purpose, and background of the policy.

Analysis of Policy

• Talk about the implementation of the policy and any difficulties encountered.
• Determine whether the policy is successful in resolving the stated issue.
• Give a clear description of the aims and objectives of the policy.

Policy Alternatives

• Describe some different approaches to policy.
• Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each choice.

Suggestions

• Make suggestions for enhancing the current policy or putting forth a fresh strategy in accordance with your findings.
• Provide logic and supporting data to support the suggestions you make.
• Highlight how important the problem is and how important your suggestions are.
• Summarize the main points of your essay.
• Provide a detailed reference list for every source you used and cited in your writing.
• Use citation styles ( APA , MLA, Chicago, etc.) consistently.

However, don’t forget to utilize clear, succinct language, logical flow, and examples and facts to back up your claims. Furthermore, keep in mind any particular instructions or specifications given by your instructor. Also, you can hire an essay helper online if you need any kind of assistance in writing your essay. The essay helper will not only write your essay but also provide you with the knowledge needed to write a flawless public policy essay.

How To Structure A Public Policy Essay?

Writing a public policy essay that successfully communicates your position on the topic requires a well-organized strategy. A compelling introduction draws the reader in and establishes the framework for your arguments. Therefore, a proper essay structure is essential to successfully convey your ideas and arguments in your essay. Here is a general outline to assist you in structuring your essay:

Create an Eye-Catching Introduction

Your main goal in the opening should be to use a hook that will captivate the reader. This might be accomplished by posing an intriguing question, providing an eye-opening statistic, or including a relevant quotation. Move on to giving background information on the public policy issue you will be addressing once you have the reader’s attention. This background information should be brief and provide readers with the essential context to understand the complexities of the policy issue.

Present a Concise Thesis Statement

Now, give an easy-to-understand and understandable thesis statement after the introduction. This sentence acts as the essay’s center. It summarizes your position on the public policy matter and highlights the primary points you will make in the essay. Moreover, it serves as a road map for your readers, pointing them in the direction of what you are saying. However, to create a concise thesis statement, you need to create a lesson plan assignment so that your statement won’t miss anything important.

State The Significance and Context

Once your thesis has been established, explore the public policy problems larger context. Give a thorough analysis of the political, social, and economic forces that have influenced the necessity for the particular policy. Afterwards, show how important the issue is by explaining the potential consequences of ignoring it and highlighting how the suggested policy would be able to help with these issues.

Conduct Literature Review

Perform a comprehensive literature review. Provide a summary of the most important conclusions drawn from studies, policies, and other relevant literature that are relevant to the public policy problem. By doing this, you show that you understand the current topic and the voids your essay seeks to fill, as well as establish the intellectual foundation for your argument. Thus, conduct a deep literature analysis so that you can provide useful information to the readers.

Write Body Paragraphs

Make sure to highlight the policy analysis part in the first body paragraph. Begin by outlining the precise goals that the suggested policy seeks to accomplish. Analyze the different alternatives or options for policy in depth. Afterward, seamlessly transition to the details of putting the selected policy into practice in the second body paragraph. Lastly, identify potential obstacles to policy execution and take appropriate action. Identify any obstacles or objections to the suggested policy. Also, provide thoughtful responses to these challenges and openly acknowledge them.

Together, these initial sections provide your readers with a clear picture of the public policy essay context, significance, and body of existing knowledge. Additionally, they also establish the groundwork for an in-depth study of the topic.

Also Read: How to Write an Outstanding 900-Word Essay

Some Suggested Public Policy Essay Topics

You should certainly think about the ideal topics if you want to write a persuasive and interesting public policy essay. However, you should choose a topic that is relevant to the current time. It needs to spark debate and hold the attention of your readers. It would be simple to conduct the necessary study to get sufficient data and proof to back up your claims. Therefore, we have brought you the latest and trendiest essay topics that you can choose from for your next public policy essay.

The following list includes some suggested essay topics that you might find interesting:

• The economic effects of immigration policy
• How well the financial sector is regulated by the government?
• The function of the state in guaranteeing health care accessibility
• How well government initiatives to fight poverty are working?
• Transportation policy: the involvement of the government
• The way the government can help to promote inexpensive housing
• The success of government initiatives to advance renewable energy
• How well government support for the arts is working?
• What and how well-performing government initiatives are at helping small enterprises?
• How the restaurant industry is affected by government regulations?
• The efficiency of public funds allocated to space exploration
• Effects of governmental regulation on the technology sector
• The function of the state in advancing technological innovation
• How well government money is used to advance technology?

Writing a flawless public policy essay requires you to select an appropriate topic that gives something to the readers. With these topics at your hand, you can choose one that you find most suitable for your next essay writing.

Get Help from Our Essay Writers!

A well-written essay is an excellent way to ensure top grades. If you are unable to accomplish your writing essay on your own, professional writers are always available to assist you. However, you can always hire our essay writers to complete your public policy on time if you don’t have excellent writing skills. They will provide with you error-free accurate, and original content for your essay. Furthermore, they can also help you with your online classes as well. No matter the time you need help with your online classes, you just need to visit our website and type, “Can someone take my online class for me ?” We will immediately match you with the expert who holds the best knowledge of your online class subject.

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ANNEX 1 How to write for public policy

• Published: March 2022
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• Writing Home
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Writing for the Public

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Public writing is a broad category that includes a wide variety of genres: opinion pieces, letters to the editor, blogs, newspaper reports, magazine features, letters to elected officials, memoirs, obituaries, and much more. All of these genres share common features. In particular, public writing aims to be accessible. It is not for specialists. And public writing usually aims to be relevant, even when it engages with the past. Still, each of the different genres has its own conventions. It is always a good idea, but especially if you are writing in an unfamiliar genre for a course, to rely on good examples of that genre as models.

Know your audience.

The specific genre you’re writing in will help you to form an image of your audience. Are you writing a feature article for a newspaper or magazine? Think as specifically as possible about who your readers are. Consider what they already know, need to know, or might want to know about your topic. The genre will also determine your manner of address. If you’re delivering a speech, don’t hesitate to speak directly to your audience by using the second-person plural, “you.” Referring to the occasion for your speech is another way of connecting to your audience.

Fellow citizens, pardon me, and allow me to ask, why am I called upon to speak here today? What have I or those I represent to do with your national independence? Are the great principles of political freedom and of natural justice, embodied in that Declaration of Independence, extended to us? —Frederick Douglass, “The Hypocrisy of American Slavery”

Provide context, and be concrete.

Even though you may be completing a course assignment, remember to frame your piece in terms of the real-world situation, actual or hypothetical, that you’ve been asked to address. Take the time you need at the outset to establish the context for your piece. Draw on the concrete specifics of the situation to support your ideas throughout your paper.

Mind your language.

Choose appropriate diction. Avoid jargon at almost all costs. Prefer simple, straightforward, direct language. Public writing is generally less formal than academic writing. Contractions (e.g., “it’s” for “it is”) are acceptable. Sentence fragments can be, too, but don’t overuse them. The occasional one-sentence paragraph or two can also be perfectly acceptable.

Everyone here is keyed up for the Big One. The One that’s going to finally bring Donald Trump down. —Maureen Dowd, “Trump Walks a Crooked Mile,” New York Times

Introducing an unfamiliar term is occasionally justifiable—if, for example, the term captures in a single word or phrase a complex idea you’ll need to invoke at multiple points in your paper. Be sure, then, to define the term, but do so in as few words as possible. Reciting from the dictionary can be cumbersome and rarely adds anything of value.

Topological quantum computing exploits the field of geometry known as topology, hence its name. Topologists study properties of objects that stay the same despite deformation. —Sophia Chen, “Two Physicists Bet Over a Quantum Computing Moon Shot,” Wired

Don’t shy away from short sentences. Varying the length of your sentences will help make for a livelier style.

Do research if necessary, but don’t write a research paper.

You may rely on appropriately chosen factual material (e.g., a telling statistic) to help make an argument, or you may provide historical context as necessary. But the more immediate the context, the better. Public writing usually focuses on the present. Often the past does inform the present, but rely where possible on the more recent past.

What your audience doesn’t want to read is a literature review. Insofar as you engage with what others have written, it is better to rely on other writing from the public sphere. If you want to bring any scholars into your discussion, look first to see whether they have explained their ideas in a public forum. If not, make sure to translate those ideas into non-academic prose.

Be prepared to set aside many of the conventions you’ve learned about academic essays.

A conventional academic introduction or conclusion will be conspicuously out of place in most forms of public writing. If you’re writing an opinion piece or a blog, you can often get right into your argument. You can even state your position in the first sentence.

Whatever else you might think about Sidewalk Labs (SWL), the controversial smart city proposal has made one undeniably positive contribution to Toronto’s civic discourse: it forced a discussion about sustainable construction materials out of the architecture journals and into the political mainstream. —John Lorinc, “Embodied Carbon and the Problem of Concrete Toronto,” Spacing Toronto

If you’re writing a magazine or an in-depth news article, you might start off with an anecdote.

One chilly October morning, Beth Cheever hopped out of an aluminum boat. In rubber boots, a life jacket, and a knit hat pulled down over her ears, she walked the portage trail, beneath denuded alders and paper birches damp with the previous night’s rain, to the granite shoreline. She had never poisoned a lake before. —Peter Andrey Smith, “Troubled Waters,” The Walrus

The anecdote can also be personal. While personal experience is generally discouraged as source material in academic essays, it can figure much more prominently in public writing.

Whatever you do, don’t identify a research question, and don’t provide a road map. Similarly, don’t waste your time or that of your readers by summarizing your key points in a conclusion. Nor will it make much sense to point to avenues for future research. You can often end with your last point. Just be sure to give that point a sense of finality. Or you might choose a strategy that academic writers avoid but journalists use to advantage: closing with an apt quotation.

Though much public writing is argumentative, the notion of a thesis statement doesn’t translate neatly from academic to non-academic genres. You aren’t obliged to state your argument explicitly. Some writers choose to make their point indirectly.

Regarding the purported rules of English syntax, we tend to divide into mutually hostile camps. Hip, open-minded types relish the never-ending transformations of the way we speak and write. They care about the integrity of our language only insofar as to ensure that we can still roughly understand one another. In the opposite corner glower the curmudgeons. These joyless, uptight authoritarians are forever muttering about clunky concepts such as “the unreal conditional” that nobody’s ever heard of. I’ve thrown in my lot with the pedants. —Lionel Shriver, “Semantic Drift,” Harper’s

If you do choose to make an explicit statement, you don’t need to single it out as the central point of your paper. Definitely don’t write, “In this paper I will argue that . . . ”

References are another feature of academic writing that you will almost never find in public writing. But in the context of a course assignment, your course instructor may still ask you to cite your sources using one of the standard systems of documentation.

If you’re writing an opinion piece, one good habit in essay writing that can carry over nicely to public writing is to engage with opposing points of view. Addressing the opposition can help you do justice to the complexity of an issue. The ability to convey complex ideas and avoid the specialized language of the academy is a mark of the finest public writing.

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Policy papers

This method of assessment involves students individually or in groups addressing a contemporary policy issue and then preparing it for presentation in written and/or oral form. The length of the written policy paper and/or oral presentation may vary. Policy papers usually present a range of alternatives to the current policy accompanied by a set of evidence-based recommendations as to which alternative might be preferable in the given context. The policy paper should include sufficient evidence to enable the decision-maker to reach a decision on the ensuing course of action.

Advantages of policy papers

Enables students to engage with real world issues.

Supports students to develop skills in selecting and using empirical evidence to underpin a proposal.

Encourages students to apply conceptual and theoretical knowledge to contemporary policy questions, to carry out some research, identify and weigh up possible options.

Enables teachers to test both lower and higher cognitive levels.

Can give students the opportunity to work on a real-world issue that is of interest to them and at times also in conjunction with policy makers in government or international organisations.

May be undertaken as a group or individual assessment. Working on a policy paper project supports the development of a range of valuable employability skills for students.

Challenges of policy papers

Differences between a policy paper and an academic essay/research paper need to be clearly explained to the students.

Tends to assess the application of knowledge in a particular area rather than the breadth of the curriculum.

Teachers need to think about how to design the assessment to enable students to work together effectively. 

Depending on the nature of the project can be rather all-encompassing.

Students may need some guidance as to how to balance the work on the policy paper against other assessments they have to complete.

How students might experience policy papers

When students get the opportunity to work on a subject that they are interested in and get the time and support to do so, they often become very excited and engaged in the project. The opportunity to work on a real-world challenge and to come up with potential solutions is an authentic form of learning: particularly if the students have the opportunity to present their work to actual policy-makers. As such it is usually something that students enjoy especially those who are not intending to pursue further academic studies. There is of course always a risk that this might crowd out other areas of their studies. Students may not be used to this form of assessment so they will need clear guidance as to what is expected; a clear explanation of marking criteria, and also an introduction to different forms of research and writing. This is particularly important given that our students are likely to be more used to academic forms of writing. One useful accompanying activity might be to ask students to take an academic blog and transform it into a policy blog.

Reliability, validity, fairness and inclusivity of policy papers

It is important that the person designing and setting the policy paper assessment is clear about exactly what it being assessed - the intended learning outcomes of the course. Consideration should also be given to how the policy paper fits with other methods of assessment on the course/programme. Likewise, it is useful for teachers to think about how the students will be prepared formatively for working on a policy paper and which additional structured activities might be designed into the course/programme as part of this process. It is also critical for students to recognise that working on a policy paper is not a less a demanding form of learning and assessment but simply different. Students are likely to need guidance in the following areas: the length of the policy paper; areas of content and formatting; approaches to writing, and presentation of policy paper work. This needs to be clearly communicated and reiterated to the students throughout the course of study as do the marking criteria and ideally the marking scheme - what proportion of marks will be allocated to format and presentation.

How to maintain and ensure rigour in policy papers

It is important to establish clear marking criteria for students and teachers alike. Marking and moderation of policy papers should be conducted following standard departmental practice. Individual markers should take steps to avoid the problems which affect batch marking, including such as the 'halo' effect where one or two positive characteristics of a student overly influence the marker.

How to limit possible misconduct in policy papers

The best way to limit possibilities for misconduct is through a staged process. This may start with a negotiation with the student or group of students over the issue to be addressed in the policy paper. It may include the presentation of a contextual paper or an outline or other tasks in written and/or oral form as an integral part of the learning process as well as a final presentation with questions from the teachers and peers. Giving students the opportunity to negotiate and refine the chosen topic is clearly supportive of an inclusive approach to learning and may also help students develop work that is specific rather than draw on general information that is easily accessible. The policy paper can, of course, be passed through Turnitin to ensure that the work is original.

LSE examples

PP440 Micro and Macro Economics for Public Policy

PP455 Quantitative Approaches and Policy Analysis

Further resources

https://politicalscienceguide.com/home/policy-paper/

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Guest Essay

I’m the Republican Governor of Ohio. Here Is the Truth About Springfield.

By Mike DeWine

Mr. DeWine, a Republican, is the governor of Ohio.

I was born in Springfield, Ohio. My wife, Fran, and I have lived our entire lives less than 10 miles from this city.

When we were dating in high school, we would go there to see movies at the Regent or State Theater or to eat fried clams at Howard Johnson’s. I remember Fran taking the bus about eight miles from our hometown, Yellow Springs, to Springfield to shop at Wren’s Department Store. Over the years, we’ve eaten countless doughnuts from Schuler’s Bakery, worshiped at St. Raphael Catholic Church and we logged many work hours there when I represented Springfield in the U.S. House and Senate.

Springfield has a rich history of providing refuge for the oppressed and being a place of opportunity. As a stop on the Underground Railroad, the Gammon House, which still stands, was a safe haven for escaped slaves seeking freedom. And, as a stop on the Old National Road, America’s first east/west federal highway, Springfield attracted many settlers both before and after the Civil War. Immigrants from Ireland, Greece, Germany, Italy and other countries helped build the city into what it is today.

For a long time, commerce and manufacturing flourished in Springfield, which earned the title “Champion City” after the founding there of the agriculture implement giant Champion Machine Company.

But the city hit tough times in the 1980s and 1990s, falling into serious economic decline as manufacturing, rail commerce and good-paying jobs dwindled. Now, however, Springfield is having a resurgence in manufacturing and job creation. Some of that is thanks to the dramatic influx of Haitian migrants who have arrived in the city over the past three years to fill jobs.

They are there legally. They are there to work.

It is disappointing to me that Springfield has become the epicenter of vitriol over America’s immigration policy, because it has long been a community of great diversity. Fran and I were reminded of this when we attended Mass at St. Raphael this past Sunday and stopped at the nearby Groceryland on our way home. We talked with community members from many backgrounds who are understandably concerned about the negative things being said about their city in news reports and on social media.

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