When writing a policy report that aims to both outline an issue and propose actionable recommendations, there are several best practices to follow to ensure the report is well-structured, engaging to policymakers, and clearly presents evidence to support the proposed course of action.

1. Define the Issue Clearly: Begin by clearly defining the problem or issue that the policy report will address. Provide relevant background information, context, and data to help policymakers understand the issue.

2. Research and Evidence: Conduct thorough research using credible sources to gather data and evidence to support the recommendations you plan to make. Ensure that your recommendations are well-supported by reliable data and research findings.

3. Stakeholder Analysis: Identify and consider the perspectives of various stakeholders who will be affected by the proposed policy changes. Address potential concerns and viewpoints to strengthen the credibility of your recommendations.

4. Structure the Report: Organize the report in a logical manner that flows smoothly from introduction to conclusion. Consider using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to make the information easy to navigate and understand.

5. Policy Recommendations: Clearly articulate specific and actionable policy recommendations based on the findings of your research. Ensure that the recommendations are feasible, realistic, and relevant to the issue at hand.

6. Engage Policymakers: Tailor the language and tone of the report to the intended audience – policymakers. Use clear and concise language, avoid jargon, and focus on presenting key information in a way that is easy to understand.