Fast Stream Analysis & Written Exercises 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of these sentences is written in plain English appropriate for a government briefing?
- The proposal will reduce waiting times for applicants. (Correct answer)
- The proposal will effectuate a diminution in the temporal duration experienced by applicants during the application process.
- The proposal may potentially have the effect of bringing about reductions in wait times for certain applicant cohorts.
- It is anticipated that the implementation of the proposal will result in applicants benefiting from reduced waiting.
Correct answer: The proposal will reduce waiting times for applicants.
Plain English uses short words and direct sentences. The first option is clear and concise. The others are unnecessarily complex or use passive/hedged language.
Question 2: You are writing a submission to ministers. Which of the following is the most important quality?
- Accuracy — every fact, figure and claim must be correct and properly sourced (Correct answer)
- Length — a longer submission shows more thorough analysis
- Tone — it should sound authoritative and use technical language
- Quantity of options — presenting many options shows good analysis
Correct answer: Accuracy — every fact, figure and claim must be correct and properly sourced
Accuracy is the foundation of any ministerial submission. Inaccurate information leads to poor decisions and potentially unlawful action.
Question 3: In structuring a written argument, which approach is most effective?
- State your conclusion first, then provide the evidence that supports it (Correct answer)
- Build up evidence gradually, leaving the conclusion to the end
- Present all evidence neutrally and let the reader draw their own conclusion
- Open with background history before addressing the actual question
Correct answer: State your conclusion first, then provide the evidence that supports it
In analytical writing for government, the conclusion-first approach (known as the 'pyramid principle') is preferred. Readers can decide whether to read further based on the conclusion.
Question 4: A document contains the phrase 'utilise best practice methodologies to effectuate synergistic outcomes'. What is wrong with this?
- It uses jargon and complex language where simple words would be clearer (Correct answer)
- It is grammatically incorrect
- It is too short to be meaningful in context
- It uses passive voice, which is always incorrect in government writing
Correct answer: It uses jargon and complex language where simple words would be clearer
This sentence is full of jargon. 'Utilise' = use, 'effectuate' = achieve, 'synergistic outcomes' = better results together. Plain English requires simple, direct language.
Question 5: When reviewing evidence for an analysis exercise, which source should you treat with the most critical scrutiny?
- A press release from an organisation with a direct interest in the outcome (Correct answer)
- A peer-reviewed academic study on the topic
- A government statistical release published by the ONS
- A parliamentary committee report based on oral and written evidence
Correct answer: A press release from an organisation with a direct interest in the outcome
A press release from an interested party is likely to present evidence selectively to support that party's position. It must be treated with greater scepticism than independent sources.
Question 6: You are asked to write a two-page analysis of a policy proposal. What should you include?
- Summary of the proposal, analysis of pros and cons, evidence base, and a clear recommendation (Correct answer)
- A full history of the policy area, all stakeholder views, and technical appendices
- Your personal opinion of whether the policy is a good idea
- A list of all possible outcomes with no recommendation
Correct answer: Summary of the proposal, analysis of pros and cons, evidence base, and a clear recommendation
A concise analysis includes the key components: what is proposed, the evidence, the trade-offs, and a recommendation. Lengthy background and personal opinion are not appropriate.
Fast Stream Analysis & Written Exercises 2
Which of these sentences is written in plain English appropriate for a government briefing?