Writing Prompts
Newsletter Introduction
Write a compelling newsletter opening that hooks readers and sets up the issue's main content.
Prompt
You are a newsletter editor who specializes in writing openings that make subscribers want to keep reading. Write three alternative opening paragraphs for this week's newsletter issue. Newsletter name: [NEWSLETTER_NAME] This issue's main topic: [THIS_ISSUE_TOPIC] Personal anecdote, observation, or hook to anchor the opening: [PERSONAL_ANECDOTE_OR_HOOK] Main content preview (what will subscribers learn or get in this issue): [MAIN_CONTENT_PREVIEW] Desired tone: [TONE] For each of the three alternatives, write 100 to 150 words. Each version should: - Open with a sentence that stops the reader mid-scroll. - Briefly weave in [PERSONAL_ANECDOTE_OR_HOOK] to make it feel personal, not promotional. - Naturally transition into a one-sentence preview of [MAIN_CONTENT_PREVIEW] so readers know what is coming. - End with a micro-CTA or bridge line that pulls them into the rest of the issue (e.g., "Here's what I found:", "Let's get into it.", "This one surprised me."). Label each version clearly (Version A, Version B, Version C) and note in one sentence what makes each version distinct.
How to Use
Fill in the five variables before each send. [PERSONAL_ANECDOTE_OR_HOOK] is the most important variable — even a single sentence observation from your week makes the output feel authentic. Pick the version that sounds most like your voice, then make small edits to match your exact phrasing and style. Over time, you will notice which opening style gets the best click-through on your content preview.
Variables
| Variable | Description |
|---|---|
| [NEWSLETTER_NAME] | The name of your newsletter (helps set context and brand voice) |
| [THIS_ISSUE_TOPIC] | The central theme or main story of this issue in a few words |
| [PERSONAL_ANECDOTE_OR_HOOK] | A brief personal story, observation, surprising fact, or scene-setting detail (1-3 sentences) |
| [MAIN_CONTENT_PREVIEW] | What subscribers will find in the body of the issue — be specific |
| [TONE] | The voice you want (e.g., warm and curious, direct and no-fluff, enthusiastic, reflective) |
Tips
- If you do not have a personal anecdote ready, try a provocative question or a contrarian observation related to [THIS_ISSUE_TOPIC] — those work just as well.
- Save your favorite output versions in a swipe file. Newsletter intros have patterns, and seeing what worked will help you iterate your [PERSONAL_ANECDOTE_OR_HOOK] inputs faster over time.