TALKING PAPER

ON

WRITING TALKING PAPERS

Function: Speaking notes that outline and narrate a single issue to inform others during planned/scheduled oral presentations

Provides both the outline of a single issue and quick-reference content on key points, facts, data, positions, or frequently asked questions

Can stand alone for basic understanding; better with knowledge topic and related issues

Format: Baseline standards below are flexible to save space and/or conform to user’s needs

Normally a single page (FYI: avoid lengthy chronologies and excessive detail)

Headings (e.g. PURPOSE, DISCUSSION) are optional; save space by eliminating headings, by using run-in headings (e.g. Format, Flow), or both

Bullets are short phrases or statements; telegraphic wording saves spaces

Format the title, margins, dashes, line spacing, and text wrapping as in the Point Paper

Punctuation: normal rules apply for complete sentences and paragraphs; bullets may have internal punctuation but do not require closing punctuation

Identification line: Format the same as for the Point paper and place only on the first page, one (1) inch from the bottom, flush left; alternatively placed in the footer, one half (1/2) inch from the bottom, flush left

Page numbering (if longer than one page): Place the page number for page 2 onwards at the top of the page, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin

Classified content: See DOD 5200.1-R to prepare classified papers. To add classification banner markings (including FOUO), click on the header or footer, and in the “Header & Footer Tools” tab, select the Header / Footer dropdown menus on the left side

USAF letterhead is not required, but is available in this template as a premade header

Flow: Clear statement, logical support, and closure

Make it memorable with a literary device and sense of closure

Include additional information as a for your information (FYI) note at the appropriate place in the text/attached background paper (FYI: This is an example FYI note.)

Recommendations or conclusion: give your talk a solid sense of the way ahead or closure