More Tips on Writing a Policy Memo

The reader shouldn't run into a table or figure until after you've let them know it's coming.

However, only do it if it adds something and isn't trivial: no bar charts with just one bar! Also, be sure to include a title, labels for each axis, and indicate any relevant units.

Be aware that spelling checkers won't stop you from accidentally using an incorrect, but correctly spelled, word. An example that often comes up in these memos is "lose" vs. "loose". Lose is the opposite of "win", and almost always the word that belongs in the memo: e.g., "consumers lose $1B as a result of the policy". Loose is the opposite of "tight". It's probably NOT what you mean unless you are writing about loose regulations.

Writing in 1st person can make a document more lively and readable but it has to be done carefully to avoid being confusing or condescending toward the reader. Under no circumstances use "we" unless you are part of the organization to whom you are writing (and in memos written for this class, you are not part of the organization -- you are an outside consultant). Also see the "Don'ts" section below on why it's good to avoid second person.

In formal American usage, organizations are treated as singular when they are antecedents of pronouns.  Example: "Apple reduced the price it charges for the iPhone" rather than "Apple reduced the price they charge for the iPhone".  This is a little tricky because it's different from the usage in the UK and elsewhere.  Using a plural pronoun will look like a mistake to an American reader unless the person is aware of the difference in usage and also knows (or suspects) that you're not from the US.

No matter where you're from, the verb should agree in number with the pronoun.  The following are wrong everywhere: "reduced the price it charge" or "reduce the price they charges".

Don't use technical terms that will be unfamiliar to readers. Instead, explain the underlying concept. Here are a few specific terms to avoid: pareto optimal, deadweight loss, consumer surplus, producer surplus, elasticity.

Ideally, avoid using the terms "marginal benefit" and "marginal cost" as well, although this rule isn't quite as strong because those terms (especially marginal cost) are pretty widely understood.

Don't include technical diagrams unless they help you clarify the text. For example, you do NOT need to include a supply and demand diagram unless it makes your text easier to understand.