Learn to edit words like a pro. I've edited 3M+ words and each week, I share a lesson to teach you what to cut, how to add value, and how to finally feel confident when editing. Every subscriber gets access to my Editing Library, a database of 62 edits broken down by the problem, my take on how to improve it, and my edited version.
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🪄Cut the Fluff: 7 content structures that move people to action
The response was amazing. So many of you connected with it and said it gave you a clear path for creating content that resonates.
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Well, today, I'm gonna show you how to turn these content ideas into un-ignorable content.
Frameworks and all.
(Props to Devin Reed and then Katelyn Bourgoin for bringing that fantastic word into my life.)
By the way, if after you read this, you go, "Damn, I wish Erica could review my content and help me apply this" — I can! That's exactly what I do in my new group coaching program, Full Stack Solopreneur.
7 High-Impact Content Structures
After analyzing so much content from people I consider high-value creators, I've developed seven content structures that, when applied well, captivate readers from hook to takeaway and leave them wanting more.
Here they are (with basic examples so you can see how the content would unfold):
1. Perspective Shifts
When you share how your perspective has evolved, readers feel less alone in their doubts about conventional wisdom. Plus, they're more likely to trust your solution because you've been where they are.
Structure
Common belief people hold
Your contrasting experience
Insight that changes everything
New approach to try
Example
Most people think [common belief]. I used to think that, too. But after [specific experience], I realized something different: [your discovery]
This changes everything because [why it matters]. Here's how to apply this:
[action step]
[action step]
[action step]
The best part? [key benefit of new approach]
[takeaway/CTA]
2. Pattern Interrupts
Starting with a bold statement immediately grabs attention. When you back it up with proof and action steps, you're more likely to transform skeptics into believers.
Structure
Bold statement that stops the scroll
Context that proves why it matters
Your personal proof point
Clear action steps
Example
Everyone in [industry/space] says you need to [common advice]. They’re wrong.
Here’s why: [explain the flaw in common thinking]
I discovered this when [personal proof point] Instead of [old way], here’s what works:
[new approach] [new approach] [new approach]
[specific action step] [takeaway/CTA]
3. Reality Checks
People respect honesty, especially when it's paired with solutions. You build trust and credibility by acknowledging (rather than ignoring) the hard truth and providing a way forward.
Structure
Hard truth that needs saying
Real consequences
Personal experience
Actionable solutions
Example
Let’s talk about the uncomfortable truth about [topic]: [state hard truth] This matters because:
[consequence] [consequence] [consequence]
I know because [personal experience/observation].
Here’s how to deal with it: [solution step] [solution step] [solution step]
When you challenge conventional wisdom with proof, people pay attention. Plus, counterintuitive insights are highly shareable.
Structure
Common assumption
Surprising reality
Evidence or proof
Practical implications
Example
The biggest lie about [topic] is: [state common assumption] The truth? [state surprising reality]
Let me prove it: [share evidence/experience]
This means: [implication].
Here’s how to use this: [actionable takeaway] [closing thought]
5. Framework Breakdowns
People love frameworks that simplify difficult concepts. And breaking down complex ideas into clear steps makes them actionable. If you can get people to try your way and see success? That's trust-building, baby.
Structure
Problem statement
Current solutions gap
Systematic approach
Implementation steps
Example:
There are [X] ways to [solve problem]. Most people only know [Y]. That won’t work because [reason]. Here’s what to do instead to reach [outcome]:
1. [First approach]
Why it works: [explanation]
When to use it: [context]
Key tip: [insight]
2. [Second approach] [continue pattern]
The "secret"? [key insight about framework]. Start with this: [specific first step].
6. Story-Based Lessons
Stories stick in people’s minds better than pure advice. When you share your journey, readers can see themselves in your story. That's such a powerful connector.
Structure
Specific situation
Attempts and failures
Key realization
Lessons learned
Example
[Vivid moment or situation]
I tried [common approach]. Then I tried [different approach]. Finally, I realized [key insight].
Here’s what I learned: [lesson].
Most important takeaway: [key learning] Want to avoid my mistake? [action step],
7. Before/After Transformations
Transformation stories are powerful because they show both the struggle and the solution. They give readers hope and a roadmap. It's empowering AF, to be honest.
That said...
/rant
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This structure is especially loved by cult of personality wannabes. Because it's so empowering, it can make you feel connected to the person sharing it because they helped you in a deep way. Some people abuse this power imbalance. The good ones don't. My mantra is I'm not gonna let bad people ruin good things.
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/endrant
Structure
Initial situation
Breaking point
Actions taken
Results achieved
Key lessons
Example
[Time period] ago, I was [initial state]. The breaking point? [what triggered change].
Here’s what I did: [action] [action] [action]
The results: [specific outcome] [specific outcome] [specific outcome]
These 7 structures aren't just templates to fill in.
The real magic happens when you combine the angles (from part 1 of this series) with these structures.
Here are some of my favorite combos:
Pattern Recognition + Reality Checks: Perfect when you've noticed a trend that's hurting people and want to call it out (without being a jerk about it)
Success Paradoxes + Counterintuitive Truths: Ideal for challenging "best practices" that actually hold people back
Experience-Based Revelations + Story-Based Lessons: Great for turning your hard-won insights into actionable advice
And yet...
Once you master these 10 angles and 7 structures, it's hard to write shitty content. It makes it so much more magnetic, resonant, and noteworthy.
However...
(Here comes the hard truth)...
In my experience, the people with the most brilliant insights have the hardest time creating content that moves people to action. Even when presented with frameworks to follow.
I see this time and time again with my clients, students, and peers.
You're cursed with the gift of abundance. You have so many deep thoughts on so many things, and up:
Overcomplicating your message
Oversimplifying your message
Saying nothing at all (because you're overthinking your message)
If this is you, I get it. I've been there too. When I started writing on social, I hated it so much that I quit for an entire year before I came back and found my groove. It felt way too hard to simplify my thoughts into digestible posts. Now? I'm obsessed with it.
That's exactly why these frameworks matter—they help you organize your brilliance into content people can actually digest and act on. And that you feel great about writing.
If this resonates, and you're a solo (or aspiring solo) who's:
Stuck under $10K months
Hitting $10K+ months, but it's inconsistent (or reliant on referrals)
Ready to create new revenue sources (or reshape existing ones)
Learn to edit words like a pro. I've edited 3M+ words and each week, I share a lesson to teach you what to cut, how to add value, and how to finally feel confident when editing. Every subscriber gets access to my Editing Library, a database of 62 edits broken down by the problem, my take on how to improve it, and my edited version.
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