pyramid-structuring

Business

Structure analysis and presentations using the Pyramid Principle with SCQA and MECE frameworks

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Pyramid Principle Structuring

Overview

The Pyramid Principle Structuring skill provides specialized capabilities for structuring analysis and presentations using Barbara Minto's Pyramid Principle. This skill enables clear, compelling communication through logical structuring, SCQA format, MECE grouping, and executive-ready storyline development.

Capabilities

SCQA Format Structuring

Structure arguments in SCQA format (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer)
Create compelling opening hooks
Build logical narrative flow
Generate executive-ready introductions

MECE Grouping

Apply MECE grouping to analysis points (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive)
Validate logical groupings
Identify gaps and overlaps
Reorganize content for clarity

Executive Summary Generation

Generate executive summaries from detailed analysis
Apply "answer first" principle
Create one-page executive briefs
Synthesize key insights and recommendations

Storyline Flow Creation

Create storyline flow for presentations
Build logical argument chains
Connect insights to recommendations
Design persuasive narrative arcs

Logical Structure Validation

Validate logical structure of arguments
Check for proper grouping and ordering
Identify logical fallacies
Verify conclusion support

Pyramid Diagram Generation

Generate pyramid structure diagrams
Visualize argument hierarchy
Show supporting points at each level
Create visual summaries

Slide Storyboarding

Create slide-by-slide storyboards
Define key message per slide
Outline supporting content
Design visual layout recommendations

Usage

Structure with SCQA

Structure this analysis using SCQA format:
[Analysis content]

Create a compelling introduction and logical flow.

Apply MECE Grouping

Apply MECE grouping to these points:
[List of analysis points]

Reorganize into mutually exclusive, collectively exhaustive groups.

Generate Executive Summary

Generate an executive summary from this detailed analysis:
[Detailed analysis content]

Apply answer-first principle and limit to one page.

Create Presentation Storyline

Create a presentation storyline for this recommendation:
[Recommendation and supporting analysis]

Design slide-by-slide storyboard with key messages.

Process Integration

This skill integrates with the following business analysis processes:

executive-presentation.js - Core presentation structuring
business-case-development.js - Business case communication
hypothesis-driven-analysis.js - Analysis structuring
consulting-engagement-planning.js - Client communication

Dependencies

Document structuring algorithms
Presentation templates
Pyramid diagram generation
Logical validation rules

Pyramid Principle Reference

SCQA Framework

Element	Purpose	Question Answered
Situation	Set context	What do we all agree on?
Complication	Create tension	What changed or went wrong?
Question	Focus attention	What should we do about it?
Answer	Provide solution	Here's what we recommend

MECE Principles

Mutually Exclusive: No overlap between groups

Each item belongs to only one category
Categories are clearly distinct
No double-counting

Collectively Exhaustive: Nothing missing

All possibilities are covered
No gaps in the logic
Complete coverage of the topic

Pyramid Structure Rules

Start with the answer: Lead with your conclusion
Group and summarize: Organize supporting points
Logically order: Use deductive or inductive logic
Apply MECE: Ensure logical grouping

Logical Ordering Options

Order Type	When to Use	Example
Time	Sequential events	Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3
Structure	Organizational units	Region A, Region B, Region C
Importance	Prioritized items	Critical, Important, Nice-to-have
Process	Workflow steps	Input, Process, Output
Comparison	Evaluating options	Option A vs B vs C

Deductive vs Inductive Arguments

Deductive (Argument):

Major premise (rule)
Minor premise (case)
Conclusion (result)

Inductive (Grouping):

Group similar ideas
Summarize the group
Draw conclusion from pattern

Slide Storyboard Template

Slide Title: [Action title - key message]
Key Message: [One sentence takeaway]
Supporting Points:
- [Point 1]
- [Point 2]
- [Point 3]
Visual: [Chart/diagram recommendation]
Transition: [Link to next slide]

Executive Summary Structure

Headline: Answer in one sentence
Context: Brief situation/complication
Key findings: 3-5 bullet points (MECE)
Recommendation: Clear call to action
Next steps: Immediate actions required