Writing research briefing papers

A ‘Research Briefing Paper’ (also known as a Research Briefing or Briefing Paper) is a concise summary of research findings that is written for an informed, although not necessarily an expert, audience [1]. Typically, research briefing papers are presented as a four-page A4-sized pamphlet, printed on A3-sized paper which is folded at its mid-point to form a stapleless seam. Each paper reaches a clear conclusion based on evidence and concise argument. Coherency and substance are the hallmarks of a good research briefing paper—no insignificant undertaking in a paper of less than 2500 words.