| name | structured-writing |
| description | Core frameworks for organizing arguments and content structure. Combines Pyramid Principle (answer-first hierarchy), SCQA (narrative engagement), and Topic Sentence Method (paragraph coherence). Use when planning outlines, structuring arguments, or drafting structured prose. |
Structured Writing Frameworks
Three proven frameworks for organizing written content effectively.
1. Pyramid Principle (Barbara Minto)
Core: Answer first, then supporting arguments, then details.
[ANSWER]
|
[Arg 1] [Arg 2] [Arg 3]
| | |
[Details] [Details] [Details]
Rules:
- Start with conclusion (reader gets point immediately)
- Group related ideas at same abstraction level
- Use logical order (structural, chronological, comparative, problem-solution)
2. SCQA Framework (McKinsey)
Core: Build narrative tension that primes reader for your answer.
| Element | Purpose | Example |
|---|
| Situation | Common ground | "Teams use AI assistants daily" |
| Complication | Problem/tension | "But generic AI produces unreliable code" |
| Question | What reader asks | "How to get reliability?" |
| Answer | Your solution | "Domain-specific customization" |
Use for: Opening hooks, persuasive content, problem-solution framing.
3. Topic Sentence Method
Core: Each paragraph's first sentence states its point and connects to hierarchy.
Five patterns:
- Definition + Importance: "[Concept] is [definition]. This [impact]..."
- Action + Result: "[Do X] to [achieve Y]. This [outcome]..."
- Problem + Solution: "[Problem] occurs when... [Solution] resolves..."
- Concept + Analogy: "[Abstract] works like [familiar]..."
- Question + Answer: "[Question]? [Answer]. [Evidence]..."
Quality criteria: Explicit claims, connected to hierarchy, standalone (scannable), evidence-ready.
When to Use
| Framework | Best For |
|---|
| Pyramid | Outlines, business communication, technical explanations |
| SCQA | Opening paragraphs, persuasive narratives, problem framing |
| Topic Sentence | Paragraph-level drafting, expanding outlines to prose |
Integration
SCQA (opening) → Reader primed for answer
↓
Pyramid (body) → Answer + supporting arguments hierarchically
↓
Topic Sentences (paragraphs) → Each paragraph advances hierarchy
@import ./content.md (full frameworks with examples)
