Public Policy Writing That Matters

The book "Public Policy Writing That Matters" is a comprehensive guide to improving public policy writing skills and making a significant impact on the world. It was written by David Chrisinger, a communications expert who directs the Harris Writing Program at the University of Chicago and previously worked in the US Government Accountability Office. Chrisinger argues that public policy writing is most persuasive when it tells clear, concrete stories about people doing things and provides practical tips and exercises for crafting concise, story-driven pieces that exceed the stylistic requirements of traditional policy writing. The second edition of the book addresses the current political climate and includes updated information on policy changes since the original publication. It is a valuable tool for policy writers, analysts, and anyone passionate about using writing to effect real and lasting change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2022
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

A comprehensive and enhanced guide to refining your public policy writing skills and creating a meaningful impact on the world.

Winner of the prestigious George Orwell Award by the National Council of Teachers of English, this book is a must-read for professionals across diverse fields who seek to effectively communicate their ideas about public policy.

While you may possess remarkable insights on how to improve the world, if you cannot effectively articulate these ideas, they will remain mere aspirations. In Public Policy Writing That Matters, communications expert David Chrisinger, who directs the Harris Writing Program at the University of Chicago and has extensive experience working in the US Government Accountability Office, argues that public policy writing is most persuasive when it tells clear, concrete stories about people taking action.

Combining practical tips, cautionary tales, writing exercises, and excerpts from sample policy analyses, Chrisinger teaches readers how to craft concise, story-driven pieces that exceed the stylistic requirements and limitations of traditional policy writing. This book is designed to help students and professionals break free from the default tendency to merely explain and instead learn proven techniques for writing sophisticated policy analysis that is also easily understandable. Whether you are involved in planning, organizing, developing, writing, or revising accessible public policy, Chrisinger provides a step-by-step guide that covers a wide range of topics, from the effective use of data visualization to the art of sentence construction, from the ideal timing for incorporating compelling anecdotes to the use of facts to reinforce arguments.

In this second edition, Chrisinger has updated the content to reflect the current political climate and address policy changes that have taken place. He offers valuable insights into navigating the complex landscape of public policy and making a lasting impact on society.

By mastering the art of public policy writing, you can empower others to join your cause, drive meaningful change, and create a better world for all. So, whether you are a student, professional, activist, or simply someone who cares about making a difference, this book is your ultimate resource for achieving success in public policy writing.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421442327
Edition number: second edition