The primary purpose of the study “Towards simplification – Analysis of selection of operations – Taking stock of practices in the EU Member States” was to map and disseminate information on the practices and procedures that authorities responsible for the management of the ERDF, ESF, and Cohesion Fund have been applying, regarding the selection of operations in the 2014-2020 programming period. Based on detailed information collected from a sample of 29 operational programmes and 87 calls for proposal, and drawing upon consultations with Managing Authorities, Intermediate Bodies and beneficiaries, an analysis of the key steps of a selection process (from call design to proposal appraisal, until signing contracts with beneficiaries) was carried out. This analysis made it possible to highlight the key features of each step (e.g. timing, effort, involved human resources, used tools, digitalization, selection criteria and methods etc.).Furthermore, challenges faced during a selection process, including gold plating, and good practices have been described while recommendations for enhancing efficiency have been proposed. These suggest, for example, to: exploit the peer learning and knowledge sharing potential emerging from a wide varied of existing practices across Member States; make sure that each call has a clear focus and is developed on the basis of a clear intervention logic; reduce the administrative burden through digitalization, standardization and effective complaint management; ensuring sufficient human resources and their effective management; promote innovative and “closer to applicant” communication and support. In addition to this report, a handbook of practices was developed, to provide examples of good practices for the effective selection of operations.