How to build a one-page content brief

A content brief should create alignment, not paperwork. The best briefs are short enough to read quickly and specific enough to prevent a generic draft.

Key takeaways

• Define the reader and the job they need done.
• Choose one clear angle before outlining.
• Add examples, internal links, and conversion goals before writing starts.

Step-by-step workflow

Start with the audience problem. Then add the target query or channel, the article promise, the recommended structure, and the evidence the writer should include.

Checklist

Use sections for audience, intent, angle, must-answer questions, outline, examples, internal links, and next action. If the brief needs more than one page, the assignment is probably still unclear.