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Policy Memo : Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard

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A policy memo can either provide a concise summary of information relevant to a policy maker or a policy recommendation for them to implement. It is also possible to provide multiple options for the policy maker to consider implementing. If multiple options are provided, you will want to discuss the pros and cons of each option and give the policy maker the context needed to select one. Your work or the issue you’re writing about is likely broad and complex, with a great deal of nuance. In a policy memo, you must distill your issue down to the most important points in a single page that a policy maker can use to make a decision. If given limited time to review a document, many people will skim for headers and section titles or read the first sentence of paragraphs to determine the paragraph’s importance. Anticipate the reader’s behavior to increase the impact of your memo: If you find it necessary to provide a large amount of numerical data, consider if tables or figures may be more ap

Developed in collaboration with Dr. Dan Pomeroy, manager of MIT’s International Policy Lab . Criteria for success 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. Catch them up to speed as briefly as possible. What is the issue being briefed and what is the significance of it to the reader? The more direct the significance, the more effective the memo. Prioritize evidence that will support your recommendations or conclusions. What factors affect the topic? Im

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