Effective writing begins with clarity—and few frameworks offer as much clarity and structure as The Pyramid Principle, developed by Barbara Minto (2009). This method helps writers and thinkers present ideas in a logical, reader-friendly hierarchy by starting with the answer and supporting it with logically grouped arguments. But what many people overlook is that the introduction itself uses a specific pattern within this principle: the SCQA structure—Situation, Complication, Question, Answer.
This blog explains how to write a compelling introduction using SCQA, which is the gateway into the broader Pyramid Principle structure.
What Is the Pyramid Principle?
The Pyramid Principle is a method of structured communication pioneered by Barbara Minto, a former McKinsey & Company consultant. At its core, it recommends starting with the conclusion (or main message), then structuring supporting arguments beneath it in a pyramid-like format (Minto, 2009). It’s widely used in business, consulting, and academic contexts where clarity and persuasion are paramount.
The full structure includes:
A SCQA introduction that sets up the narrative logic
A pyramid body that delivers the main idea (answer) followed by logically grouped support (key) points
Sub-arguments and data nested beneath each point as needed
What Is SCQA?
The SCQA model is how Minto recommends constructing the introduction to your communication. It sets the context and leads naturally to the main idea:
| Element | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Situation | Establish the context; what’s stable and known |
| Complication | Introduce the change or tension that disrupts the status quo |
| Question | Pose the natural question that arises from the complication; e.g., a hypothesis |
| Answer | Deliver the main idea or recommendation (top of the pyramid) |
This structure draws readers in by creating a narrative tension—they’re primed to care about the answer before you deliver it.
Example of an SCQA Introduction
Situation:
Remote work has become widespread since the COVID-19 pandemic, with many companies adopting hybrid or fully remote models.
Complication:
However, many organizations now face challenges in maintaining collaboration and productivity in remote settings.
Question:
How can teams work more effectively in this new distributed environment?
Answer:
Investing in asynchronous communication tools and redefining team norms are essential strategies for remote team success.
This introduction leads logically into a Pyramid Principle structure where the rest of the article would elaborate on:
Asynchronous communication tools
Team norms and rituals
Case studies or implementation plans
Why Use SCQA in Introductions?
The SCQA format creates narrative momentum—it mirrors how people naturally understand stories or arguments:
Something’s stable
Something changes
A question arises
A solution is proposed
This flow keeps readers engaged, sets up your message as a natural response to a challenge, and avoids information overload up front.
Minto (2009) argues that readers are more likely to accept your conclusion if they understand the logical context that leads to it. SCQA makes this easy by building tension and curiosity before delivering the answer.
Practical Tips for Writing SCQA Introductions
Keep the Situation brief and specific—no need for general history or background.
Make the Complication sharp—what changed? Why does it matter now?
Ensure the Question is implied or explicit—this builds anticipation for your answer.
Answer clearly and confidently—this becomes the top of your pyramid.
In Summary
When writing introductions using the Pyramid Principle, don’t jump straight to the answer. Instead, guide your reader there with SCQA: set the context, create urgency, raise the right question, and then deliver your message. This not only makes your introduction more engaging but also sets a logical foundation for the rest of your writing.
By combining SCQA for the introduction and the Pyramid structure for the body, you give your writing both clarity and compelling flow—an unbeatable combination for professional and academic communication.
References
Minto, B. (2009). The Pyramid Principle: Logic in Writing and Thinking (3rd ed.). Pearson Education.
Baron, D. (2021). Think Like a Consultant: How to Use Logical Structuring and SCQA to Make Your Writing More Persuasive. Consultant Press.
Zinsser, W. (2006). On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction (30th Anniversary ed.). Harper Perennial.
