Which statement best describes a structured analytic technique?

• A. A method to speed up data collection.
• B. A framework for tactical operations.
• C. A formal method to organize thinking and minimize bias.
• D. A procedure for coding sources.

Answer: (C)

Structured analytic techniques are formal, repeatable methods used to organize thinking and guide analysis in a disciplined way. They provide structured prompts, steps, and critiques that help analysts surface assumptions, generate and test alternative explanations, and compare evidence in a fair, transparent manner. The goal is to minimize cognitive bias and improve the defensibility of conclusions. The other descriptions miss the central purpose: they focus on speeding data collection, framing tactical operations, or coding sources, none of which capture the deliberate, bias‑reducing thinking process that SATs are designed to enforce.