Workshop #6: Individual Memo
Workshop Overview
In this final workshop, we focus on crafting Individual Memos, an essential skill for effective policy analysis. The memo provides actionable recommendations, supported by analysis and evidence, in a concise and clear format tailored to the needs of your client.
Objectives
- Analyze and critique sample memos to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Develop concise writing strategies to create impactful, focused memos.
- Learn tools for structuring arguments, addressing counterarguments, and aligning recommendations with client priorities.
Activities
- Memo Analysis: Review and critique sample memos to understand best practices.
- Interactive Exercise: Roleplay as an analyst, summarizing findings and making recommendations.
- Grandma Bessie Test: Craft and refine a 1-minute elevator pitch for your memo.
Key Takeaways
- Clarity is crucial: Place the recommendation upfront, use simple language, and structure the memo for readability.
- Brevity matters: Stay within the word count by prioritizing essential ideas.
- Anticipate client needs: Align every argument with what matters most to the client.
- Use visual aids: Simplify complex arguments and comparisons with tables, graphs, or matrices.
- Practice storytelling: Frame the memo as a narrative—problem, options, recommendation, and evidence.
Prepare to leave this workshop equipped with tools to create effective, polished policy memos that make a lasting impact!