Fast Stream Analysis & Written Exercises

Question 1

A briefing note should begin with which section?

Accepted Answer

Purpose — what the note is about and what decision or action is required

Answer

Background — all the historical context for the issue

Answer

Recommendations — the proposed course of action

Answer

Annexes — supporting data and evidence

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the 'so what?' test for written analysis?

Accepted Answer

Does the analysis explain why the findings matter and what should be done as a result?

Answer

Does the analysis contain enough data to support the conclusions?

Answer

Is the analysis written in plain English that anyone can understand?

Answer

Does the analysis cover all possible options regardless of feasibility?

Question 3

In an analysis exercise, you are given three policy options with different costs, risks and benefits. Which approach is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Evaluate each option against the stated criteria and make a clear recommendation with justification

Answer

List all three options without a recommendation to avoid appearing biased

Answer

Choose the cheapest option as cost is always the primary factor

Answer

Choose the option with the highest benefit regardless of risk or cost

Question 4

Which of the following is a logical fallacy you should avoid in written analysis?

Accepted Answer

Ad hominem — attacking the person making an argument rather than the argument itself

Answer

Occam's Razor — preferring simpler explanations when evidence is equal

Answer

Confirmation bias avoidance — seeking disconfirming evidence

Answer

Steelmanning — representing opposing views at their strongest

Question 5

A written exercise asks you to recommend a course of action. You should ensure your recommendation is:

Accepted Answer

Specific, actionable, justified by evidence, and linked to the stated objective

Answer

General enough to cover all eventualities

Answer

Aligned with the most popular view in the evidence

Answer

Based on your personal experience in similar situations

Question 6

What is the purpose of an executive summary in a written exercise?

Accepted Answer

To give the reader all the key information and conclusions without requiring them to read the full document

Answer

To introduce the background and context of the issue in full detail

Answer

To list all the data sources and references used in the analysis

Answer

To describe the methodology used to gather and analyse information