G overnment decisions are taken based on circumstantiated studies and analyses of the policy in question. These studies, backed up by theory, research and good practices, indicate the alternatives available and their consequences, thus allowing the decision maker to choose with knowledge and confidence the most convenient programme or policy for the objectives proposed.Does this ideal, modern, rational world correspond to the practices of decision-makers? Is this comfortable situation, in which validated options are offered in order to inform decisions taken in the public and private spheres, the norm? That is not always the case. It is even less true if one considers all countries. This is because this ideal situation assumes that certain "normal" prerequisites will be in place, i.e. a degree of evolution in the process of modernisation of the state and a legalinstitutional framework that requires and legitimises processes of the type described; in short, the availability of technical and bureaucratic personnel endowed with competence and ability to manage the methods and instruments of policy analysis. However, such conditions cannot be created overnight. They result from long and complex processes of institutional development and the modernisation of organisations and procedures. Even then, it still takes time for those practices to become widespread and take root.What are the characteristics of the Brazilian practice of public policy analysis? This is the question that Policy Analysis in Brazil attempts to answer. The 18-chapter collection is edited by Jeni Vaitsman, José M. Ribeiro and Lenaura Lobato and was published in mid