---
name: pyramid-principle-structured-communication
description: Structure messages with the Pyramid Principle (Barbara Minto). Use for executive summaries, storylines, presentations, recommendations, or any clarity-first communication.
---

# Pyramid Principle Communication

Use $ARGUMENTS as initial context.

## When to use this skill
- Executive summaries and leadership updates.
- Recommendations, memos, or strategy writeups.
- Slide storylines and narrative structure.
- Any request to make a message clear and structured.

## How to use this skill
1. Define audience, decision needed, and the governing question.
2. Write the answer first as a single clear message.
3. Group 3-5 supporting points in a MECE structure.
4. Order points using deductive or inductive logic.
5. Add evidence, implications, and risks for each point.
6. Refine for brevity and remove overlap.
7. If information is missing, ask targeted questions.

## Resources
- `references/pyramid-rules.md` - Core rules and checks.
- `references/scqa.md` - Situation, Complication, Question, Answer.
- `templates/structured-storyline.md` - Final structure.
- `examples/pyramid-example.md` - Sample output.

## Output guidelines
- Lead with the answer and keep support points parallel.
- Use evidence that is specific and defensible.
- Respond in English.

## Missing information to ask for
- Audience and decision context.
- Core recommendation or conclusion.
- Evidence available and constraints.

## Keywords
pyramid principle, Minto, structured communication, executive summary, storyline, SCQA