The aim of this text is to cut through the ambiguity and contradictions inherent in policy analysis by means of an operational-prescriptive approach. Its main objective is to encapsulate the concepts, methods and tools of policy analysis and to provide an insight into factors acting within and around the policy analysis process. Based on the collaborative research of Iris Geva-May and Aaron Wildavsky, the first full draft of the book was completed just before Dr Wildavsky's untimely death. Since that time, Dr Geva-May has worked to thoroughly revise and update the manuscript. The text can be used by researchers in political science, or as a textbook for any course in policy analysis, policy planning and evaluation. It should serve as a source for students of political science, public policy, administration and management, as well as for policy analysts, researchers and executives in both the US and abroad.