UNCLASSIFIED
READ-AHEAD
Subj: VISIT BY XXXX
Encl: (1) Biography
(2) Itinerary
(3) Talking Points
Time
- 1130-1200, Friday, 17 May 00
Location
- CDR's Office
Desired Outcome of Visit
- Exchange views on Country X issues
Talking Points
- Topic: Purpose of Talking Points
- Topic: Talking Points Format
- Topic: Purpose
- Topic: Determine Content
- Topic: Emphasis
- Topic: Clarity
See enclosure (3) for details
Principal Attendees
- J-code RANK NAME
- DV Title Name
MAJ/DOE/USAF/JXXX/477-XXX/ 14 MAY 00
UNCLASSIFIED
TALKING POINTS FOR XYZ
1. Topic: Purpose of Talking Points
- Contains essential information, in abbreviated, one-line bullets
- Required part of Read-Ahead, Trip Book, etc.
2. Topic: Talking Points Format
- Flexible with few standard headings to allow flexibility
- As a minimum, bold the topic title to focus reader's attention, bold other info as needed
- Observe rules for page and portion markings if paper is classified
3. Topic: Purpose
- Are communications points you want CDR to convey during call/meeting
- Keep background information to minimum
- Clearly state what and why CDR should convey points; don't just spout facts
- Taylor communication points to each call
4. Topic: Determine Content
- Put yourself in user's position; consider audience and express thought accordingly
- Include only enough detail to satisfy purpose of paper
- Use short, abbreviated-style
- Use four or less main points (six max!) taken from the KEY POINTS
-- Not necessary to extract KEY POINTS verbatim; tailor to target audience
5. Topic: Emphasis
- Use bold to highlight other important text
- Use bold text to give CDR/DCDR most important information comm points
6. Topic: Clarity
- Use action words like "bring up," "avoid discussing," and "discuss" to suggest CDR action
- Ensure topic has direct bearing on item to discuss or avoid discussing
MAJ/DOE/USAF/JXXX/477-XXX/14 MAY 00