Communicating with Intelligence: Writing and Briefing for National Security, Second Edition (Security and Professional Intelligence Education Series) - Softcover

Communication is the essence of intelligence. For without being communicated effectively, intelligence merely underwrites ignorance. This fully revised and expanded edition of the noteworthy volume Communicating with Intelligence provides intelligence practitioners with a comprehensive and detailed handbook for effective professional communications. Its chapters set out practical guidelines along with practical exercises for each element of the communications process, from the reading of intelligence source material, to the writing of intelligence reports, to the delivery of intelligence briefings, emphasizing throughout the trustworthy dissemination of intelligence information. This is indeed an encyclopedic manual that should be on the desk of intelligence analysts, managers, and policy-makers. It would also be a valuable asset for academic writers and graduate students in the Intelligence Studies domain. -- Martin Rudner, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus, Carleton University, Canada James Major's new edition of Communicating with Intelligence is full of pragmatic advice that will resonate with both beginner and advanced intelligence students. Major covers every imaginable aspect of writing and briefing for intelligence analysts in conversational (and accessible) detail. Most importantly, he does in one book what other writers have done in several: the book covers grammar, writing, presentation skills, and career advice. For intelligence analysis students and practitioners, Major's book is a must-read. -- Melissa Graves, Associate Director and Instructor, Center for Intelligence and Security Studies, The University of Mississippi; Co-Author of Introduction to Intelligence Studies (2012) In the past, senior U.S. military commanders have complained that the intelligence reports and briefings they received were `mush' and provided little value to their decision-making. However, writing and briefing intelligence are not easy tasks. In this new edition, James Major greatly simplifies these tasks by delving into the mechanics of transforming raw intelligence into final products that deliver to intelligence consumers the information they need. Through easy-to-understand explanations, numerous examples and practical exercises, and even a healthy infusion of humor, the author teaches the reader how to communicate effectively. This book will be an invaluable addition to the bookshelves of all intelligence professionals, whether newly-minted or veteran. -- Christopher A. Vallandingham, USAR, Associate University Librarian/Adjunct Law Professor, University of Florida Levin College of Law

Communicating with Intelligence was the first book to teach the skills needed to make sure that papers, reports, and other products be correctly written by intelligence students and professionals. It also responded to the increased number of degrees in intelligence and national security offered in academic institutions. Aimed at students, faculty, and practitioners, the book is designed to provide all necessary information on how to prepare, write, and read intelligence publications: *Foundations of successful intelligence communication *Differences between academic and intelligence writing *How to use arguments *Framework for analysis *Writing toolkit *How the briefing process works *Guide to creating citations *How to handle classified materials *Samples of individual and group exercises This fully revised and expanded edition will be an essential tool for anyone who needs to learn or hone their skills in how to communicate with intelligence effectively.