Point Paper

POINT PAPER The PAO or the senior journalist normally writes a point paper. The actual style of your point papers may A point paper (also called a talking or issue paper) vary, depending on the preference of your boss. Some is a concise document that provides capsulized commands will have an instruction or notice on their comments for use during a meeting or conference. It can also serve as a memory tickler or a quick-reference preparation. outline for a superior (usually the CO), or as a suitable There are two varieties of point papers. Figure 1-12 study guide for the CO to use in preparing for a press is the informal point paper format, and figure 1-13 is the conference. formal point paper format. POINT PAPER ON PREPARATION OF INFORMAL POINT PAPERS – A point paper is a concise document that provides succinct comments for use during a meeting or conference. — Usually prepared by an action officer or staff member for a superior. — Serves as a memory tickler or quick reference outline. — Point papers are good study guides for a commander to use in preparing for press conferences where a number of areas may be discussed. — Normally prepared in outline form and may use “telegraphic wording” rather than complete sentences. — Style depends on user’s knowledge of subject and desires. — Formats vary, but this example illustrates one of the most popular. — Uses dashes before major points; further indent subordinate points. – Use the one-dash, two-dash, three-dash sequence. — Double-spaced between points, and try to keep it to one page. — Avoid chronologies and masses of statistics. — You may write a background paper to accompany a point paper, if needed. — Think of what the user will say; include the key facts. Figure 1-12.-Informal point paper format. 1-36