# Post Quality Scorecard (Pre-Publish Check)

Use this scorecard before publishing ANY post to predict performance.

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## Scoring System

Rate each criterion 0-3:
- 0 = Missing/Poor
- 1 = Basic
- 2 = Good
- 3 = Excellent

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## Profile Alignment (Weight: 2x)

| Criterion | Score | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| Topic matches your 5 core areas | /3 | Algorithm checks expertise |
| Consistent with recent content | /3 | Topical authority signal |
| Language/tone matches profile | /3 | Authenticity marker |
| **Subtotal** | /9 x 2 = **/18** | |

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## Hook Strength (Weight: 2x)

| Criterion | Score | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| Works in 110-140 characters | /3 | Mobile band (floor + ceiling) |
| Creates curiosity gap | /3 | Click-through driver |
| Promises clear value | /3 | Worth reading? |
| **Subtotal** | /9 x 2 = **/18** | |

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## Dwell Time Potential (Weight: 1.5x)

| Criterion | Score | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| Length 1,200-1,800 characters | /3 | Optimal range |
| White space formatting | /3 | Easy to read |
| Encourages re-reading | /3 | Saves, bookmarks |
| **Subtotal** | /9 x 1.5 = **/13.5** | |

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## Engagement Triggers (Weight: 1.5x)

| Criterion | Score | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| CTA invites 15+ word comments | /3 | High-value engagement |
| Shareable (others want to amplify) | /3 | Viral potential |
| Save-worthy (reference value) | /3 | Top algorithm signal |
| **Subtotal** | /9 x 1.5 = **/13.5** | |

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## Format Optimization (Weight: 1x)

| Criterion | Score | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| Right format for content | /3 | Carousel/text/image |
| Mobile-optimized | /3 | 70% mobile users |
| No external links in body | /3 | Avoid penalty |
| **Subtotal** | /9 x 1 = **/9** | |

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## Voice Authenticity (Weight: 1x)

| Criterion | Score | Notes |
|-----------|-------|-------|
| Sounds like the author (not generic AI) | /3 | Check against voice samples |
| Uses natural contractions and phrasing | /3 | Conversational, not formal |
| Includes specific personal detail or anecdote | /3 | Personal observation or reference |
| **Subtotal** | /9 x 1 = **/9** | |

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## Total Score: /81

### Pass/Fail Thresholds

| Score | Action |
|-------|--------|
| **57+** | Excellent - post with confidence |
| **46-56** | Good - consider one improvement |
| **34-45** | Review needed - improve weakest area |
| **Under 34** | Don't post - rework significantly |

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## Profile/Topic Relevance Validation (Critical)

Before posting, verify your profile supports the post's topic (topic/interest relevance is a confirmed 2026 ranking input — see `references/algorithm-signals-reference.md`):

- [ ] Profile clearly shows expertise in post topic
- [ ] Headline includes relevant keywords
- [ ] Recent activity supports topical authority
- [ ] Featured section demonstrates credibility

**If profile doesn't support the post topic, fix profile FIRST.**

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## Quick Score (30-Second Version)

For quick posts, use this simplified check:

1. On-topic for my expertise? (Y/N)
2. Hook works in 110-140 chars? (Y/N)
3. Clear value delivered? (Y/N)
4. Ends with engagement prompt? (Y/N)
5. No external links in body? (Y/N)

**All 5 = Yes? -> Post it.**
**Any No? -> Fix first.**

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## Pre-Publish Basic Checklist

Before finalizing any post, verify:

- [ ] Hook works in first 110-140 characters
- [ ] Character count within optimal range
- [ ] Short paragraphs with white space
- [ ] Tone is authentic, not corporate
- [ ] No corporate buzzwords (leverage, synergy, paradigm shift, thought leader, disruptive, value proposition, ecosystem, holistic approach)
- [ ] Provides genuine value to readers
- [ ] CTA is specific and natural
- [ ] Passes the "mobile test" (readable on phone)
- [ ] Passes Authority Value Test: Does it help someone make a better decision or think differently?
