Memorandum facts for kids

A memo written by a White House staff member when Jimmy Carter was US president.

A memorandum (plural: memoranda), often called a memo, is a written message. It's usually used in professional places like offices or government. The word "memorandum" comes from Latin and means "that which is to be remembered."

Memos are usually short and easy to understand quickly. They help people share important information fast. This can lead to quick and effective changes in a business or organization.

In law, a memorandum can be a record of a deal or agreement. Examples include a memorandum of understanding or a memorandum of agreement. In business, companies use memos for talking to people inside the company. Letters are usually for talking to people outside the company.

Other types of memos include briefing notes or reports. The way a memo looks can change depending on the office or group. For example, a memo for a government minister might have very strict rules. But a memo for a co-worker might be more flexible.

What is a Policy Briefing Note?

A policy briefing note is a special type of memo. It helps share policy analysis with people who make big decisions. These notes are often called policy issues papers or cabinet submissions. A briefing note usually says if it's "for information" or "for decision."

Why are Memos Important?

Memos have many important uses. They can tell people about problems. They also help solve problems by sharing clear and short messages. Memos help people make better decisions. They can also share information, answer questions, or suggest ideas. Memos can even be used to make a quick request or proposal. These short papers can help businesses act faster and make a positive difference.

How are Memos Structured?

A briefing note should clearly explain a policy problem. It should also show different ways to fix the problem. It should talk about different viewpoints and suggest the best choice. A typical briefing note includes:

• A description of the idea.
• Important background information.
• Things to think about, like how to make it happen or how much it will cost.
• A summary of reasons for and against the idea.
• A suggested decision.

Memos have a standard layout to make them easy to read. They start with a heading that includes "To," "From," "Date," and "Subject." Then comes an opening paragraph that explains the memo's purpose. After that, more details are added, followed by a section for specific actions. The longest part is usually the discussion, before the message ends.

What Makes a Good Memo?

There isn't one perfect way to write a briefing note. But it should be a short, clear summary of a public policy problem. It needs to have a clear reason for the suggested action. A good memo is concise and easy to understand.

The style and tone of a memo should always be professional. This is true no matter who will read it. This makes sure the message is always respectful. You might also see briefing notes with numbered paragraphs. This helps keep the paper organized.

Today, people don't usually sign memos because they are often digital. But in the past, when memos were handwritten, they usually had a signature. It's still okay to sign or initial a memo if you want to.

See also

• Bench memorandum
• Grey literature
• Memorandum of agreement
• Memorandum of association
• Memorandum of conversation
• Memorandum of understanding
• Mémoire
• Presidential memorandum
• Private Placement Memorandum
• Note taking