Writing: High-Level Professional & Academic C2
Crafting a Persuasive Policy Brief
Listen to key concepts for C2 writing.
Before You Start: C2 Core Concepts 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
This is the language of high-level professional writing.
The B2 Essay vs. The C2 Policy Brief
A B2 essay explores a topic for a general audience. A C2 policy brief advocates for a specific solution to a specific person (the stakeholder).
B2 Opinion Essay (Explores)
"In this essay, I will discuss the pros and cons of plastic bag bans. In my opinion, the bans are good because they help the environment, but they are bad because they are inconvenient for shoppers. In conclusion, it is a complex issue."
C2 Policy Brief (Advocates)
"To the Minister of Environment: The current reliance on single-use plastics has resulted in a 40% increase in urban waterway blockage (see Fig. 1). This brief outlines a three-phase policy to incentivize reusable alternatives. We recommend the immediate implementation of..."
The 3 Pillars of a Persuasive Policy Brief
Your brief must be short, clear, and powerful. It must answer three questions immediately.
What is the problem, and why must it be solved *now*? State the problem and support it with one key piece of data.
- The current data indicates...
- We are at a critical juncture regarding...
- This issue presents a systemic risk to...
What is your practical, evidence-based solution? Do not just say "we must stop this." Give a concrete plan.
- We propose a three-pronged approach...
- The recommended framework consists of...
- This policy is viable, as demonstrated by...
What, *exactly*, do you want the reader to do? Be specific.
- We urge the Ministry to...
- We recommend the immediate implementation of...
- It is imperative that the committee...
Example Snippet: Executive Summary
The first paragraph is the most important. It must contain all 3 pillars.
[Problem/Urgency] "Cambodia's rural digital divide is widening; data from Q3 shows a 40% gap in high-speed internet access between urban and rural high schools."
[Solution/Viability] "This brief proposes a viable public-private partnership to fund 'Community Digital Hubs' in 500 rural schools, a model proven successful in neighboring countries."
[Call to Action] "We urge the Ministry of Education to allocate 1.5% of the 2026 budget to pilot this program."
Practice Your C2 Analysis 🎯
Quiz: Identify the Strongest Statement
A strong policy brief uses objective, evidence-based language. A weak one uses vague, emotional language. Choose the best option for a professional policy brief.
1. Which sentence best identifies the PROBLEM?
2. Which is the clearest CALL TO ACTION?
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Policy Brief
A concise summary of a problem with specific, evidence-based recommendations for a decision-maker.
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Stakeholder
A person or group with an interest in an issue (e.g., government, a company, the public).
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Evidence-Based
Based on proven facts, data, and research, not just personal opinion.
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Viable
Practical, realistic, and capable of succeeding.
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Imperative
Extremely important or urgent.
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Systemic
Relating to a whole system, not just a small part.
Your Writing Mission ⭐
Write a 1-Paragraph Executive Summary
Your mission is to write one powerful paragraph (150-200 words) that follows the 3-Pillar structure. Choose one of these real-world topics:
- Topic 1: The problem of plastic waste in Cambodia's rivers.
- Topic 2: The need for more green spaces (parks) in Phnom Penh.
- Topic 3: Improving road safety for motorbike users.
Your paragraph must include:
- The Problem (Urgency): State the problem with one piece of (real or realistic) data.
- The Solution (Viability): Propose one specific, practical solution.
- The Call to Action (Clarity): State exactly who should do what.