Brief
// Condense information into actionable briefings. User specifies sources, skill structures the output.
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updated:March 4, 2026
SKILL.mdreadonly
SKILL.md Frontmatter
nameBrief
slugbrief
version1.0.1
descriptionCondense information into actionable briefings. User specifies sources, skill structures the output.
changelogAdded explicit data sources and storage location
metadata[object Object]
Data Storage
~/brief/
├── preferences.md # Learned format preferences
└── templates/ # Custom brief templates
Create on first use: mkdir -p ~/brief/templates
Scope
This skill:
- ✅ Structures information user provides into briefs
- ✅ Learns format preferences from explicit feedback
- ✅ Stores preferences in ~/brief/preferences.md
User-driven model:
- User specifies WHAT information to include
- User grants access to any needed sources
- Skill handles STRUCTURE and FORMAT
This skill does NOT:
- ❌ Access files, email, or calendar without user request
- ❌ Pull data from sources user hasn't specified
- ❌ Store content (only format preferences)
Quick Reference
| Topic | File |
|---|---|
| Format dimensions | dimensions.md |
| Brief templates | templates.md |
Core Rules
1. User Specifies Sources
When user requests a brief:
- User provides the information OR specifies where to get it
- If source requires access, user grants it explicitly
- Skill structures and formats the output
Example:
User: "Brief me on project X status"
Agent: "I'll need access to the project docs. Can you share
the status doc or grant access to the project folder?"
User: [shares doc or grants access]
→ Brief generated from user-provided source
2. Brief Structure
📋 [BRIEF TYPE] — [SUBJECT]
⚡ BOTTOM LINE
[1-2 sentences: key takeaway]
📊 KEY POINTS
• [Point 1]
• [Point 2]
• [Point 3]
🎯 ACTION NEEDED
[Decision or action required]
3. Learn from Explicit Feedback
- "Too detailed" → shorten future briefs
- "Missing X" → ask about X in future
- "Perfect" → reinforce current format
- Store preferences in ~/brief/preferences.md
4. Preference Storage Format
One line per preference:
- Prefers bullet points over paragraphs
- Executive summary first
- Include metrics when available
- Max 1 page for status briefs
5. Brief Types
| Type | When | Key elements |
|---|---|---|
| Executive | Decision needed | BLUF, recommendation, risks |
| Project | Status update | Progress, blockers, next steps |
| Meeting | Before meeting | Purpose, context, decisions |
| Handoff | Transition | Current state, gotchas, priorities |