Policy Communication Toolkit

Module 3: Writing for Policy Audiences

The Writing for Policy Audiences module teaches skills for communicating with policymakers and other nontechnical audiences through written formats. Participants learn how simple and clear writing makes their message more compelling and how to structure a policy brief. Exercises ask participants to apply skills through writing exercises. Elements of this module focus on developing a policy brief, but the sessions on policy writing are relevant for all policy communication activities.

At the conclusion of this module, participants will be able to:

  1. Describe elements of effective policy writing.
  2. Select appropriate content and messages for a policy brief.
  3. Apply elements of policy writing through their own work.
  4. Evaluate examples of policy writing based on principles of good policy writing.

At the conclusion of this module, participants will have developed their own:

  1. Outline for a policy brief.
  2. Policy brief.

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Components

Principles of Policy Writing (WP1L)

Time: 20 min.

This session outlines how writing for policy and nontechnical audiences differs from academic or research-oriented writing.

Components

Conversational Writing (WP2L)

Time: 45 min.

This session focuses on developing concrete writing skills for writing in a conversational, not technical, manner. It is closely linked to the exercises on nontechnical writing.

Components

Required Preparation

Conversational Writing Exercises (WP3E)

Time: 45 min.

Participants apply lessons about conversational writing style through writing exercises and feedback.

Components

Writing a Policy Brief (WP4L)

Time: 20 min.

This presentation addresses the typical format and content included in a policy brief.

Components

Critiquing a Policy Brief (WP5E)

Time: 40 min.

Applying their understanding of the principles of policy writing and the content of a policy brief, this large group discussion critiques a policy brief using a checklist tool.

Components

Can a Policymaker Understand This? (WP6E)

Time: 1 hr.

Participants read a short piece of technical writing and work individually to identify jargon and re-write in a conversational style.

Components

Required Preparation

Writing a Policy Brief Outline (WP7A)

Time: 1 hr. or homework

Participants outline the content and messages for a policy brief based on their own research.

Components

Application of Skills to Policy Brief (WP8A)

Time: Varies

Building on feedback received on their policy brief outline, participants work to develop a complete policy brief.

Components

Required Preparation

Supplemental Activities

Working Group Session 3 (WPS1G)

Time: 1 hr. 30 min.

After drafting an outline for a policy brief, each participant shares the outline with the small group and receives individual feedback from peers and a facilitator. This feedback helps participants improve their content before drafting a complete brief.

Components

Required Preparation