A$.$ A more or less systematic set of values and beliefs that serves as a guide to action and understanding.

B$.$ The capacity of administrative officials to exercise choice on some topics because of authority delegated to them.

C$.$ The development of proposed courses of action or alternatives for dealing with public problems. $($Also called "policy formulation."$)$

D$.$ A theory of decision$-$making holding that decisions are usually based on limited analysis and involve marginal changes in existing policies.

E$.$ Decision$-$making through a process of negotiation, give$-$and$-$take, and compromise.

F$.$ The various ways by which problems can gain a place on an agenda and attract the attention of policy$-$makers.

G$.$ What is of interest or benefit to people generally rather than particular groups or segments of the population.

H$.$ The ability of those in hierarchical positions to make decisions that are binding on subordinates.

I. Those persons who are especially interested in and informed about a public policy.

J$.$ A regularized pattern of human behavior that persists over time and that performs an important task.

K$.$ A set of problems or issues that public officials feel they should act on in some way.

L$.$ Substances or activities whose costs $($or benefits$)$ are external to the process or