Score a draft with the SMC Value Score

Run the SLOPP Test first. Then rate the draft on each criterion below.

How to score:

Read the whole draft once before scoring.
Score each criterion on its own. A high score on one should not raise another.
If the draft sits between two stages, pick the one it more clearly resembles.
Score only what is in the draft, not what you meant.

Two criteria are gates: Novelty and Promise fulfilment must each score at least 3. Below that, revise the draft whatever its total.

Nothing you enter is saved or sent anywhere.

Screen for slop first, then score. A high total never rescues a failed check.

Your target score

Between 1.0 and 5.0. Publishable means at or above it.

1No clear connection to the audience’s interests or problems.2Loosely related to the audience’s field, but not to a specific need.3Addresses a recognizable interest or problem of the audience.4Addresses a specific, current need of the audience.5Addresses a pressing need the audience would actively seek out.N/ADoesn’t apply to this draft

1The benefit is never stated or implied.2The benefit can be inferred only after reading most of it.3The benefit becomes clear within the first few lines.4The opening line or visual states or strongly signals the benefit.5The benefit is unmistakable at a glance.N/ADoesn’t apply to this draft

1Restates widely available content with nothing added.2Familiar content, with minor new detail or a different format only.3A clear new angle, example or synthesis on a familiar topic.4A substantially new perspective, data or application.5Original insight, finding or argument not readily found elsewhere.

1The hook implies value the draft does not contain.2Partial payoff; the main value is missing or behind a click.3The promise is delivered, though thinly.4The promise is fully delivered.5It delivers more than the hook promised.

1Mostly padding, filler or preamble; the value is buried.2Value is present but diluted by padding or repetition.3Reasonably direct; some material could be cut.4Direct; little or nothing could be cut without losing value.5Every element earns its place; the length matches the value exactly.N/ADoesn’t apply to this draft

1Wrong for the platform or audience; risks trust or reputation.2Noticeable mismatch in format, tone or setting.3Acceptable for the platform and audience.4Well adapted to the platform and the audience’s expectations.5Native to the platform; uses the medium to strengthen the message.N/ADoesn’t apply to this draft

0 of 6 scored

Why no engagement data? This score judges the draft, not its results. High engagement with a low score is a warning sign, often bait. Low engagement with a high score usually points to the hook, the format or the timing, not the substance.

Score a draft with the SMC Value Score

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