Get NYU Wagner Policy Memo & Brief Samples.docx

Citing Sources Policy memos generally do not include footnotes, endnotes, further readings, or a bibliography. However, if you use supporting information in a memo, cite the source in the text.

To address this, policy memos should include a clear cost-benefit analysis that considers anticipated outcomes, the potential impact on stakeholder groups you have identified, clear and quantifiable performance goals, and how success is to be measured.

As long as you are aware of your audience and purpose, the format of a memo is extremely flexible. As long as you convey the necessary information, memos can have bullet points, tables, figures, etc.

Policy Memo Bottom line up front. Start with your most important recommendations. Provide relevant, concise background. Don't assume policy makers or staff have any previous knowledge of the topic. ... Prioritize evidence that will support your recommendations or conclusions. ... Implementation and Recommendations.

In a policy memo, it's generally acceptable to use bullet points, headers, and other formatting to make your writing more concise. Evidence It is not clear from the prompt whether the professor expects outside research, but the provided salary data is probably most of what you need.

A well-written policy memo reflects attention to purpose; it is well organized; and it has a clear, concise style. In most cases, you will know the audience for your work because (1) you have been hired by that individual or organization or (2) your instructor provides that information to you.

A policy memo is typically shorter - often less than 10 pages long and sometimes as short as a single page. A policy brief might be longer - sometimes over 50 pages.

Don't use informal language. Memos, by their nature, need to be written in a professional manner. As such, do avoid colloquial language. Be succinct.