How to draft a source-cited memo

When a file is ready

A research file is usually ready for memo drafting when selected decisions have been reviewed, Lens findings have been considered, citation readiness is visible and the research question is clear.

Walkthrough

Use memo generation as the synthesis step after source review, not the first step in research.

1. 1Open a research file.
2. 2Review selected decisions, source links, snippets and uncertainty flags.
3. 3Check the evidence workbook, fact-pattern comparator and Lens panels where available.
4. 4Promote only Lens citations that belong in memo context.
5. 5If a source-linked memo already exists, open it to continue source review; otherwise open Continue to memo or Generate memo from reviewed sources.
6. 6Choose Prepare memo, then review the selected sources and outstanding source checks.
7. 7Approve the suggested research plan, then generate the research memo.
8. 8Open the memo detail page and check every cited source before use.

The generated memo is research assistance, not advice. Check sources and use professional judgement before relying on it.

After generation

Read the structured briefing, inspect source-supported facts, compare source references, and treat missing or weak citation support as a review item before relying on the draft.