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A Tradecraft Primer: Structured Analytic Techniques for Improving
Intelligence Analysis

By a CIA/Directorate of Intelligence Analyst

Image showing a person drawing various graphics illustrating analysis
Image showing a person drawing various graphics illustrating analysis

Introduction

THE "MIND-SET" CHALLENGE Using the analytic techniques contained in
this primer will assist analysts in dealing with the perennial
problems of intelligence: the complexity of international
developments, incomplete and ambiguous information, and the inherent
limitations of the human mind. Understanding the intentions and
capabilities of adversaries and other foreign actors is challenging,
especially when either or both are concealed. Moreover, transnational
threats today

pose even greater complexity, in that they involve multiple
actors--including nonstate entities--that can adapt and transform
themselves faster than those who seek to monitor and contain them.
Finally, globalization has increased the diversity of outcomes when
complex, interactive systems such as  financial flows, regional
economies or the international system as a whole are in flux.

To continue reading, download PDF of complete Tradecraft Primer

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