General Format

• Submit manuscripts in MS Word (.doc or .docx) format only.
• The text should be 12-point Times New Roman, double-spaced with a single margin. Use left alignment and indent the first line of each paragraph. Headings should be in bold and use proper capitalization. Maintain consistent heading levels throughout the document.
• Tables, figures, and equations (if any):
  • Tables must be created and formatted directly in MS Word (not as images). Position tables within the text near where they are first referenced.
  • Figures (e.g., graphs, charts, illustrations) must be high-resolution (at least 300 dpi) and submitted in .jpg format. They should also be embedded within the text where appropriate.
  • Each table or figure must have a short, descriptive title and appropriate labels and headings. It should also be numbered sequentially.
  • Equations must be typed using the MS Word Equation Editor. Avoid using images or screenshots of equations. It should be displayed on a separate line when lengthy or complex.
• Footnotes should appear on the same page when necessary. Indicate them in the text using superscript numbers.
• Include a brief bio-sketch (2–3 sentences) on a separate page at the end of the manuscript, stating your full name, institutional affiliation, and email address or other contact information.
• Use APA 7th edition citation style for all in-text citations and reference entries. The reference list must be double-spaced and use hanging indents.
• Place any supplementary materials (e.g., raw data, tools, detailed case examples) in the Appendices section. Label each appendix clearly (e.g., Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire)
• Others:
  • Add page numbers at the bottom center or bottom right of each page.
  • Use clear, concise, and professional language. Avoid unnecessary jargon. Define technical terms when first introduced.
  • Spell out acronyms upon first use, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. Use abbreviations consistently thereafter.
  • Ensure that all hyperlinks are active and working.

Structural Elements

• Title
  • A clear, concise, and informative title that reflects the focus of the policy review. The title should be both sticky and engaging to grab the reader’s attention and convey a core message, rather than using a more academic title from a comprehensive study.
• Executive Summary
  • A succinct overview of the paper (200-300 words), covering a brief introductory sentence followed by bullet points about the core problem, the most important findings, and the main policy recommendations.
• Main Body:
  • Background: This section provides the evidentiary basis for the brief by defining the policy problem. It presents a critical analysis of existing policy failures and their impacts, thereby substantiating the need for a new or revised policy approach.
  • Proposed Policy Options: This section focuses on the strategic choice of a solution, answering the key question, “What should be done?”. Its purpose is to present and evaluate high-level policy alternatives and provide a convincing argument for why one option is the most effective and appropriate path to address the problem.
  • Policy Recommendations: This section focuses on the practical application of the chosen policy option, answering the key question, “How to implement it?”. It details a feasible set of specific, actionable steps that various actors should take.
  • References
  • Basis of Analysis and Link to Research: This section transparently states the foundation of the brief’s analysis. The content will vary depending on the status of the research:
    • If based on a completed study, provide a precise reference and a hyperlink to the complete, in-depth policy study or research paper.
    • If based on ongoing research, mention the title of the research project and its expected completion date.
  • Appendices