| name | writing-structure-planner |
| description | Guides writing architecture planning using McPhee's structural diagramming method, helping select from 8 structure types (list, chronological, circular, dual/triple profile, pyramid, parallel, custom), create visual diagrams, and place gold-coin moments for engagement. Use when planning or organizing writing structure, outlining before drafting, restructuring disorganized drafts, or when user mentions outlining, organizing ideas, structure planning, article architecture, narrative flow. |
Writing Structure Planner
Table of Contents
Related skills: Use mcphee-structure-derivation first when you hold a raw research corpus and no structure yet. It runs McPhee's coding-and-sorting pass to derive and name a shape. It then hands the sorted components here, for diagramming and gold-coin placement. Use writing-revision for revising existing prose, writing-stickiness for memorable messaging, writing-pre-publish-checklist for final quality checks.
Core Principles
- Structure arises from material: Don't impose a structure - let the content suggest its natural organization
- Blueprint before building: Always plan structure before drafting
- Invisible architecture: Good structure is invisible to readers - they just experience flow
- Three options minimum: Always sketch at least 3 structural options before choosing
- Gold-coin distribution: Place reader rewards throughout, especially in the middle
Workflow
Copy this checklist and track your progress:
Structure Planning:
- [ ] Step 1: Analyze material thoroughly
- [ ] Step 2: Explore structure options
- [ ] Step 3: Select and refine structure
Before starting: Review resources/structure-types.md for the 8 structure types, diagramming method, and selection criteria.
For analysis steps, output findings to analysis files in the current directory to ensure thorough coverage of all material. These analysis files remain in the project for your review.
Step 1: Analyze material thoroughly
Step 1.1: Gather and understand all material completely. Read everything the user has provided.
Step 1.2: Create analysis file writer-structure-material-analysis.md and output: all key points, anecdotes, data, quotes, and examples found in the material. Identify themes and patterns. Determine what's most important vs. supporting detail. Identify the natural organizing principle (time, space, importance, comparison). Note reader considerations (busy? engaged? unfamiliar? expert?).
Step 1.3: Present the material analysis to the user and confirm understanding is complete. Ask: "Did I miss any important material or themes?"
See resources/structure-types.md - Gather Your Material for detailed guidance.
Step 2: Explore structure options
Step 2.1: Read the analysis file. Review all 8 Structure Types with examples.
Step 2.2: Create analysis file writer-structure-options.md and sketch 3 different structure options. For each option include: structure type name, diagram sketch, how user's material maps to it, pros and cons.
Step 2.3: Test each option against Structure Selection Criteria. Present all 3 options to the user with your recommendation.
See resources/structure-types.md - Sketch 3 Options for detailed process.
Step 3: Select and refine structure
Step 3.1: Read the options file. Based on user's choice (or your recommendation if they defer), select the structure that best serves the material.
Step 3.2: Create the final annotated structure diagram. Map key moments and transitions. Identify where to place gold-coin moments throughout (especially middle sections). Annotate with pacing and transition notes.
Step 3.3: Verify structure supports the through-line (promise -> delivery -> resonance). Test: Does this feel inevitable or forced? Present final annotated structure diagram for user review before drafting.
See resources/structure-types.md - Select and Refine for detailed guidance.
How to know if structure is working:
If working: Readers won't notice it, they'll just experience flow and feel the piece is "well-organized."
If not working: Readers will feel lost, wonder "where is this going?", or abandon before the end.
Validate using resources/evaluators/rubric_structure.json. Minimum standard: Average score >= 3.5.
Structure Types Overview
The 8 structure types available (see resources/structure-types.md for full details):
| Type | Best For |
|---|
| List | Multiple independent points, how-to guides |
| Chronological | Narratives, historical accounts, processes |
| Circular/Cyclical | Hooking readers with drama, then providing context |
| Dual Profile | Character profiles, examining topic from multiple angles |
| Triple Profile | Complex characters in multiple contexts |
| Pyramid (Inverted) | News, executive summaries, busy readers |
| Parallel Narratives | Comparing/contrasting, multi-threaded stories |
| Custom Diagrams | Unique material that doesn't fit standard types |
Guardrails
Requirements:
- Material-first: Always understand the material before suggesting structure. Never impose a structure without understanding content.
- Three options: Always generate at least 3 structural options. The second or third is often best.
- User collaboration: Present options and let the user choose. Don't dictate structure.
- Gold-coin placement: Every structure must include strategic placement of reader rewards, especially in the middle.
- Test the structure: Ask "does this feel inevitable or forced?" before finalizing.
Common pitfalls:
- Defaulting to chronological when another structure serves better
- Front-loading all strong material in the opening
- Ignoring the "saggy middle" problem
- Imposing structure without understanding material
- Skipping the 3-option comparison step
Quick Reference
Key resources:
Inputs required:
- User's material, ideas, or topic description
- Target audience (if known)
- Any constraints (length, format, publication)
Outputs produced:
- Material analysis document
- 3 structure options with pros/cons
- Final annotated structure diagram with gold-coin placement
- Recommended writing order
