1. A point brief conveys the key elements of a subject at a glance by showing each ‘point’ (item of information) as a separate entry. You can tailor the structure of a point brief to suit the subject matter or the recipient. Check what is needed before starting work.
2. Main features. You may use headings to complete the meaning of an item of text. Use normal paragraph identification and page formatting. This makes it easy to give cross-references, or to copy-and-paste detail from or into other documents.
3. Layout.
- Standard vertical spacing throughout unless otherwise required by superior.
- Standard paragraph identification and alignment of text.
4. Headings. Provide essential pointers:
- Chosen logically to structure (break up) text.
- Possible for text to rely on heading to complete the sense.
5. Style.
- Usually written in note form.
- Use logical progression:
-- Within paragraphs.
-- And from one paragraph to the next.
- Use abbreviations only when meaning clear to reader.
6. Summary. Not usually necessary. Point brief already a summary of key points. Given only if recipient requires one.
7. Common faults.
a. Loss of meaning. Before cutting text to a minimum, remember that the reader may not share your level of knowledge on the topic. Leaving out information is a common fault. Worse still is making the notes so short that your meaning is unclear. Don't lose clarity in the search for brevity, and don’t use abbreviations thoughtlessly.
b. Inconsistent style. Point briefs are usually written in note form. However, if you are asked to use short, grammatically complete sentences, use that style throughout. Inconsistent style detracts from the effectiveness of a point brief.