Expand Writing

Purpose

Take an idea from a daily note and create a full writing piece. Transforms rough captures into complete first drafts.

How to Use

Invoke with /expand-writing <idea> in Claude Code.

Example: /expand-writing remote work boundaries are about communication not time

Arguments

• $ARGUMENTS: The idea/item to expand (can be a bullet point, phrase, or rough concept)

Instructions

1. Parse the input to understand:

   • Core idea or topic
   • Any context clues about format (blog post, essay, thread, etc.)
   • Key points or angles to explore

2. Generate filename:

   • Format: YYYYMMDD <Summary Title>.md
   • Use today's date
   • Summary title: 2-5 words, title case
   • Example: 20251221 Remote Work Boundaries.md

3. Create the file at 199 Writing/<filename>:

---
status: DRAFT
title: <compelling blog TOC title>
created: <YYYY-MM-DD>
topic: <brief topic>
---

4. Expand the content:

   • Start with the core argument or insight
   • Add supporting points, examples, or evidence
   • Include any counterpoints worth addressing
   • Keep the voice authentic and conversational
   • Aim for a complete first draft, not just an outline

5. Add reference notes section at the bottom:

   • Link to relevant [[People]], [[Areas]], or other vault notes
   • Note sources or inspirations if applicable
   • Format:

   # References
   - [[Relevant Note]]
   - Source: <if applicable>
   

6. Update the source note:

   • Search recent daily notes for the original text/item
   • Replace it with a wikilink to the new writing: [[<filename>|<title>]]
   • Example: [[20251221 Obsidian Periodic Notes Calendar Dependency|Why Your Obsidian Weekly Notes Won't Start on Monday]]

7. Confirm creation with the file path and a brief summary of what was expanded.