1. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Writing Policy Papers for MS&E 290 Tuesday, January 13, 2003

2. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Overview Objective Structure Analysis Clarity

3. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Objective is NOT to write… An opinion piece: –(e.g. Op-Ed, editorial, personal opinion, etc.) One-sided or unbalanced analysis Inconclusive analysis –i.e. costs and benefits of each policy  now you decide

4. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity So what is the objective… Present a clear, comprehensive, structured, and unbiased analysis which provides valuable insights into a policy decision.

5. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Structure (see Example) Introduction: -brief opening introducing the decision at hand. Background: -factual information you deem the decision-maker should know. -Beware! Don’t state the obvious - your audience is probably somewhat familiar with the subject at hand. Policy Objectives: -criteria by which you measure success of decision.

6. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Structure (see Example) Analysis: -Will be discussed shortly… Recommendation: -“I recommend policy option A, B or C.” Appendix: -I nclude all calculations/charts…

7. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Structure breakdown Analysis Background Policy Objectives Introduction Recommendation 4 pages 3-4 lines 1/2 page 1 line 4-5 lines Appendix + 2-3 pages

8. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Each paper will have a slightly different focus Foreign Health Environment Energy Sensitivity analysis Note: For those who have not studied sensitivity analysis, Professor Shachter will be reviewing it in his lecture on Jan. 22

9. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Suggestion… Do your analysis before you start writing your paper

10. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Paper should be easy to read (I) Analysis should be easy to understand for someone with no probability or decision analysis background Make your assumptions clear. Don’t spend a lot of time rehashing the instructions.

11. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Paper should be easy to read (II) AB E(casualties)2050 E(cost)$1,000$9,000 Use Tables and Charts… … and Headings and Subheadings Note: Place most tables and charts should in the appendix

12. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Quality of writing is important Write as clearly as possible, avoid long and complex sentences if they detract from the clarity of your argument No typos No grammatical errors Get somebody to proof read your paper!

13. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Follow instructions Make sure to stay within 1500 word/ 5 page double-spaced limit Turn in your paper on time (1/2 letter grade per late day)

14. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Review Present a clear, comprehensive, structured, and unbiased analysis which provides valuable insights into a policy decision.

15. ObjectiveStructureAnalysisClarity Any questions?