To run this task you must have the following required information:

> Topics, notes, or content to include in the newsletter

If you don't have all of this information, exit here and respond asking for any extra information you require, and instructions to run this task again with ALL required information.

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You MUST use a todo list to complete these steps in order. Never move on to one step if you haven't completed the previous step. If you have multiple read steps in a row, read them all at once (in parallel).

Add all steps to your todo list now and begin executing.

## Steps

1. [Read Newsletter Writing Guide]: Read the documentation in: `./skills/sauna/[skill_id]/references/compose.newsletter.guide.md`

2. [Read Human-Style Prose]: Read the documentation in: `./skills/sauna/[skill_id]/references/shared.prose.style.md` (Natural writing guidelines)

3. [Read Writing Style]: Read the file at `./documents/user/writing_style.md` and analyze its contents (User's captured writing voice)

4. Check if `./documents/user/writing_style.md` has content. If empty or missing:
"I can write better newsletters if I know your writing style. Want me to analyze some samples?
You can paste writing samples, or if you have Gmail/Slack/Notion connected, I can learn from those."

If user wants style capture, run `./skills/sauna/[skill_id]/references/recipes/context.style.analyze.md`.
If user wants to proceed without, continue with generic professional tone.


5. Gather newsletter context:

BASICS
- Newsletter name/brand (if recurring)
- Target audience
- Tone (casual, professional, playful)
- Length preference (quick read vs comprehensive)

CONTENT
- Main topics or updates to cover
- Any supporting links or details
- Key takeaways or calls to action
- Any sections that should be included (e.g., "Featured", "Quick Hits")


6. Validate scope before drafting:

LENGTH CHECK
- Count topics provided: <3 topics = short (2-3 min read), 3-5 = medium (3-5 min), 6+ = long
- If 6+ topics: Suggest prioritizing the most important 4-5 or splitting into multiple newsletters
- Match length to user's preference from context gathering

FORMAT CHECK
- Confirm newsletter is the right format for this content:
  - Newsletter = recurring, scannable, multi-topic updates
  - Blog post = single topic deep dive (redirect to blog-writer skill)
  - Press release = formal announcement
  - Internal memo = one-time directive
- If content seems better suited to another format, pause and ask

COMPLEXITY CHECK
- If technical content + non-technical audience: plan to simplify jargon, use analogies
- If mixed audience: plan layered content (lead with universal benefit, add depth for advanced readers)


7. Structure the newsletter:

SUBJECT LINE (3 options)
- Clear benefit or hook
- Avoid clickbait but spark curiosity
- Keep under 50 characters

PREVIEW TEXT
- Extends the subject line
- Shows in inbox previews
- 35-90 characters

OPENER (2-3 sentences)
- Hook or context
- Why this issue matters
- Set the tone

MAIN CONTENT
- Lead with the most important item
- Use headers to break sections
- Keep paragraphs short (2-3 sentences)
- Include relevant links inline

QUICK HITS / ADDITIONAL ITEMS
- Bullet format for shorter items
- One line per item with link if relevant

CLOSER
- Wrap up or preview next issue
- Clear CTA if applicable
- Sign-off that fits the brand


8. Polish for email:
- Scannable with headers and bullets
- Mobile-friendly paragraph length
- Links have clear anchor text
- No walls of text