Author:
Bobbie Johnson
Date Of Creation:
2 April 2021
Update Date:
26 June 2024
Content
The ability to write a background paper can be a useful skill for students, business people, politicians and public figures. Typically, a reference document describes a specific problem and its prerequisites, makes suggestions for its solution, lists the tools already used and recommendations for improving the situation. A good background document should be short, well-structured, and describe the most important facts and notable decisions. Here is a step-by-step description of the process of compiling a reference document.
Steps
1 Describe the problem.- Highlight causes and symptoms. Understanding the cause will help solve the problem. For example, at first glance, it may seem that young village girls do not want to go to school. Upon closer inspection, it turns out that they have no transportation to get to school, or that the road to school is too dangerous.
- Summarize the problem description. Be brief. Describe the cause of the problem first, then the symptoms. For example, talk about the lack of public transport and dangerous roads. Then explain how these problems are affecting low student enrollment and, finally, that low educational attainment creates disadvantageous economic prospects for girls.
2 Meet your audience.- Write in simple, accessible language. Consider the interests of the readers of your background paper and their attitude to the issue. Use a speech style that is accessible to them, avoiding technical terms and details that they may not understand.
- Answer questions from your readers. Think about what questions your readers might have and try to answer them in your reference document. If the problem involves complex processes, describe the most important aspects of them.
3 Suggest a solution or a set of possible measures.- Convince your audience. Perhaps you have a solution that you think can fix the problem. Describe it and explain why this is the best solution. Please provide documented evidence and facts to support your arguments.
- Present several possible solutions to the public. If the problem is new or difficult, you may not be able to find an effective solution right away. Consider several possibilities and present each as a solution to the problem. Give some examples of how each of the suggested remedies has been effective in other similar cases.
- Describe the possible consequences. Some solutions can be expensive. Explain how much the problem will cost from the individuals or communities involved in solving the problem. Be specific and list all the necessary facts to convince the public that you have thoroughly researched the issue.
4 Write a conclusion. Briefly summarize the problem description, your analysis and recommendations. 
5 Prepare your reference document. Typically, a reference document contains a description of the problem, its background, possible solutions, and a conclusion. If necessary, add an attachment to the document that contains important statistics or charts. If you are writing a reference document as part of your homework assignment, follow the teacher's format and length requirements.
Tips
- Read the background papers written by eminent leaders and renowned scientists to learn about their effective methods.
