majiayu000 Scannable Token-Efficient Writing
Overview
MECHANISM skill for chat output formatting. Teaches HOW to write scannably (formatting patterns), complements CEO hook (WHEN to be brief) and elements-of-style (prose quality).
Core principle: Front-load decisions, use progressive disclosure, eliminate narrative filler.
When to Use
Chat output:
- Status updates, options presentation, error explanations
- Complex topics that risk verbosity
Design doc sections:
- Problem/Solution/Overview sections → scannable, concise
- Structure summaries → bullets + diagrams
Comprehensive detail appropriate for:
- Implementation pseudocode, data contracts, testing strategy
- Technical debt documentation, whiteboard sections
Token Warning
Loads ~2,000 word reference. Use when output optimization is critical.
Reference
See formatting-reference.md for:
- Content-Type Decision Matrix
- Front-loading and visual hierarchy patterns
- Token reduction techniques
- Before/after examples
- Red flags checklist