Congressional one-pagers are used by advocacy groups to help legislators make decisions and shape policy. One-pagers help busy decision makers understand an organization’s stance on an issue in one glance. So, one-pagers distill a lot of information into one, graphically interesting, easy to read document. All of the information should fit on one side of a standard 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper.
The written text of your one-pager should:
- Begin with an engaging title that is accurate and attention seeking.
- Provide a brief overview of the issue
- Explain the impact on communities
- Use evidence from your research or other studies, reputable surveys, policy experiences in other states. Cite in a footnote or on the backside.
- End with a summary statement
- Consider outlining policy options, including potential impact on your population or potential cost savings, if applicable.
- Include your name, title, contact information, and date.
- Use language that is understandable to an everyday audience.
The visual/design elements of your one-pager should:
- Have a color scheme that doesn’t detract from the written word or topic.
- Use blocks of color or layout to emphasize ideas.
- Include headings with large font to help guide the reader and organize points.
- Use bullets in lieu of paragraphs.
- Consider including one chart, graph, or image that best illustrates your central claim.