Analysis & Written Exercises Flashcards
6 cards from real FAST STREAM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Analysis & Written Exercises flashcards as text
A briefing note should begin with which section?
Answer: Purpose — what the note is about and what decision or action is required
A briefing note must immediately tell the reader what it is about and what is required of them. Ministers and senior officials read many briefings and need purpose stated upfront.
Which of the following best describes the 'so what?' test for written analysis?
Answer: Does the analysis explain why the findings matter and what should be done as a result?
The 'so what?' test asks whether the analysis is connected to a clear purpose and outcome. Data without interpretation or implication is not useful analysis.
In an analysis exercise, you are given three policy options with different costs, risks and benefits. Which approach is most appropriate?
Answer: Evaluate each option against the stated criteria and make a clear recommendation with justification
Good analysis applies consistent criteria and leads to a clear, justified recommendation. Refusing to recommend or ignoring trade-offs are both weaknesses.
Which of the following is a logical fallacy you should avoid in written analysis?
Answer: Ad hominem — attacking the person making an argument rather than the argument itself
An ad hominem attacks the credibility of a person rather than engaging with their argument. It is a fallacy that weakens any analytical piece.
A written exercise asks you to recommend a course of action. You should ensure your recommendation is:
Answer: Specific, actionable, justified by evidence, and linked to the stated objective
A strong recommendation is clear and specific, supported by evidence, and directly tied to the exercise objective. Vague or evidence-free recommendations are weak.
What is the purpose of an executive summary in a written exercise?
Answer: To give the reader all the key information and conclusions without requiring them to read the full document
An executive summary allows a senior official to understand the issue, analysis and conclusion quickly. It is not background, methodology or references.