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Write a pre-read people will actually read

When the meeting only works if everyone arrives with the same context.

Longpre-readwritingpreparation
Write a pre-read document from the material below. One page maximum.

Structure:
1. **What we are deciding**, in one sentence, at the very top.
2. **What you need to know**, as short paragraphs, not bullets, so the reasoning is visible.
3. **The options**, each with what it costs and what it gives up. Include the option of doing nothing.
4. **The recommendation**, stated clearly, with the reason. A pre-read without a recommendation just moves the thinking into the room.
5. **What I want from the meeting**: the specific question I need answered.

Assume the reader has five minutes and will skim. Front-load everything. Flag any claim that rests on an assumption rather than data.

Material:

Making it yours

  • Paste your own material where the prompt asks for it. Everything above that line is instruction, not content.
  • Delete any rule that does not apply to you. A shorter prompt that fits beats a thorough one that does not.
  • If the answer comes back vague, add a line saying what you do not want. Constraints work better than encouragement.

Before and during. Agendas, pre-reads, prep for a 1:1 or an exec slot, and plans for retros and workshops.

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