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Craft Of Memo Writing

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The recommendations from the readings on memo writing share many similarities and some differences that are beneficial, but depend on the type of memo being created. For example all the readings agree on the importance of using evidence to fortify arguments and recommendations to the receiver of the memo. In The Craft of Memo Writing by Robert Behn, he writes that the author of a memo must ask themselves if their sentences makes sense, and if they are addressing “the flaws in the core idea,” of their argument. Behn argues that evidence is needed to create an effective policy memo that is convincing since evidence supports the logic of the arguments, thus making it conceivable. Marie Danziger agrees with Behn, by arguing that a person must …show more content…

Robert Behn, writes that you should “avoid the obtuse background section,” and instead place only interesting facts to keep the attention of those reading your memo. Behn, stresses that a memo must contain facts but for the most part be entertaining to keep the reader’s attention throughout the memo. However, in the memo outline by the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, which highlights the importance of providing a brief overview of the history and context of the problem you are addressing to inform your audience. The Gerald R. Ford School emphasizes background information to make your audience aware of the problem being address, while Behn prefers entertainment with minimum facts. In Behn’s instruction on how to create a memo, he stresses that holding the audience’s attention is the most important thing a memo must do. While, the Gerald R. Ford School stresses context and history over …show more content…

Ford School of Public Policy. The memo does not state its purpose first but rather the contexts and history of the problem then its purpose. The memo is structured to provide six different plans on how to handle the Syrian crisis with arguments and counter arguments for each plan. The memo follows the instructions created by Stone, Danziger, and the Ford School of Public Policy by providing context, facts, and evidence and counter arguments for the recipient to make a decision. However, it is not engaging or entertaining and does not get right to the point, thus can be considered boring and long. But the memo provides the reader with information to make a viable

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