Synthesize a brief that can be checked
Course overview · 4 min reading + 12 min practice, estimated
Principles and method
Write the conclusion first, then the evidence supporting it and the remaining uncertainty. Use claim-level source references rather than an undifferentiated list of links. Prioritise claims that could change the next decision. State when evidence was checked and when it becomes stale. Keep the original source accessible within permitted handling rules. Another researcher should be able to reproduce the reasoning without repeating the whole investigation. A research brief should invite correction, especially when a candidate or client provides more direct and current information.
Worked example
A brief recommends a discovery conversation because two independently observed changes suggest a commissioning programme. It labels timing and external support needs as unknown and proposes two questions instead of a confident sales pitch.
Put it into practice
Produce a one-page brief with three facts, two hypotheses and three verification questions.
Use fictional information and keep your work in your own notes.
Compare your approach: self-review guidance
A reader should identify which sentence is a fact and locate its supporting source. Remove any claim that cannot be supported or clearly labelled. End with the smallest useful next step, not an assumed commercial commitment.
Sources and further reading
Original Academy teaching and fictional examples. These references provide context, not endorsement. Edition 2026.09; updated 2026-09-24.
- CIPD: Recruitment
Professional context for the recruitment lifecycle.
- ICO: Recruitment and selection
UK guidance. Check its current status and updates before implementation.