Policy Brief Writing Guide

This guide provides an overview of expectations, examples, and resources to support authors and reviewers interested in publishing their policy briefs on our website. 

What is a policy brief?

A policy brief is a concise, evidence-based document that translates scientific knowledge into actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders. It identifies a policy challenge, analyzes relevant strategies, and offers clear, evidence-backed recommendations tailored to a specific audience or decision context.

Why publish a policy brief?

Policy briefs are a trusted and impartial source of information used to inform public debate and guide policy action. If your research can inform better policy, a policy brief is one of the most direct ways to make your science matter.

Writing principles

Policy makers want digestible insights they can quickly grasp and recall when making decisions.

When writing your brief

  • Keep it concise, clear, and relevant (max. 1,500 words including visuals and references)
  • Focus on results and recommendations, not methods
  • Identify specific key stakeholders who can, do, or should (depending on your recommendation) have an impact or role to play in the issue
  • Use plain, active language and avoid jargon
  • Define the problem and its urgency early on
  • Present multiple perspectives and their implications
  • Base your arguments on credible, diverse sources
  • End with specific, actionable recommendations

Standard structure

Length: Max 4 pages (≈1,500 words, including figures and references)

Design: Clear, visually engaging, and professionally formatted

  • Headline: Choose a short, memorable title that captures the essence of your message — something easy to cite in discussion or debate.
  • Executive summary: Help readers grasp your key points at a glance. It is recommended that this section is in a separate colored text box for visibility.
    Use bullet points to:
    • State the purpose of the brief
    • Highlight major findings or insights
  • Introduction: Briefly outline the problem and why it matters now, the context, and your core argument
  • Findings (500-1000 words): This is the heart of your brief. Use clear sub-headings and visual aids (charts, diagrams, tables) to present:
    • The status quo and urgency of the issue
    • Alternative policy options and their pros/cons
    • Your recommended approach, with supporting evidence
    • The expected impacts on key stakeholders
  • Implications (100-200 words): Explain how your findings relate to current or proposed policies. What are the possible courses of action? What trade-offs should be considered?
  • Recommendations (300-500 words): State your proposed actions clearly. Address:
    • How the policy could be implemented
    • Which sectors, regions, or communities would be affected
    • Possible costs or barriers
    • Key actors or institutions involved
  • References & further reading: List the main sources that underpin your argument

Examples of Policy Briefs

You can also refer to our previous policy briefs on our website: 

https://www.epfl.ch/campus/associations/span/policy-briefs-and-reports

Recommended resources

SPAN accepts policy brief submissions on a rolling basis. We welcome early-career researchers eager to translate their science into actionable insights for policy and practice. Submit your policy brief to: [email protected]

Interested in contributing to SPAN’s peer-review process? Get in touch with us here!

You can join our Policy Review Panel to help ensure the quality, rigor, and relevance of SPAN’s publications. Share your expertise and support the next generation of science-policy communicators.