Evidence-based writing
Write conclusions that are concise, traceable and proportionate to the evidence.
Covered in this guide
- Link material claims to evidence.
- Separate fact, interpretation and recommendation.
- Communicate uncertainty directly.
Evidence-based writing lets a reader distinguish what happened, what it may mean and what should happen next. Blending those elements makes weak assumptions look like facts.
Keep fact, meaning and next step apart
Evidence-based writing lets a reader distinguish what happened, what it may mean and what should happen next. Blending those elements makes weak assumptions look like facts.
A progress note that mixed them
A report says, “Students dislike the new portal, so it should be replaced.” The source was five support tickets from 4,000 users.
Try this
Produce a more defensible finding and recommendation.
Review answer guidance
Five users reported specific difficulties with the new portal; this evidence does not establish overall sentiment. Categorise the tickets, review broader usage and accessibility data, and address confirmed usability barriers before deciding whether replacement is warranted.
What the writing task is scoring
If the task asks for a short brief, lead with the decision. Put observations in one sentence and interpretation in another so a marker can see which is which.