How to Reverse Engineer a Writer’s Style with AI—and Turn It into a Complete Style Guide with Proven Writing Strategies
Writer Style DNA Guide
How to Reverse Engineer a Writer’s Style with AI—and Turn It into a Complete Style Guide with Proven Writing Strategies
Have you ever worked with a brand that knows what content it likes, but hasn’t gotten its ducks in a row? No style guide, no structure, just vibes?
Here’s a simple, repeatable process to turn those vibes into a full-blown style guide using AI.
It takes about an hour and gives you everything you need to align voice, tone, and format.
Step 1. Find the Author’s Work (I used mine for this example)
Go to the author or brand’s contributor page. Anywhere they’ve published consistently works well—think Medium, LinkedIn articles, branded blogs, or bylines in online magazines.
For my guide, I picked Adweek and #paid:
Step 2. Install LinkGrabber
Next, download the free LinkGrabber Chrome Extension and activate it. This tool will help you pull all the article URLs from a contributor page in seconds.
It looks like this:
Step 3. Collect the Links
With LinkGrabber active, click to grab all the published links from that page. Copy and paste the relevant ones into a document or spreadsheet for safekeeping.
Step 4. Repeat with Other Publications (as necessary)
If the author writes in multiple places (for example, a company blog and an industry publication), repeat the process to gather content from each relevant source.
Note: If you’re creating a style guide for a client, it’s possible they will send you several different links of content they like from various authors. It works to put links in from different authors and find common themes.
Step 5. Paste Links into Claude (or Your AI of Choice)
Paste 10–15 links into Claude.ai and ask it to analyze the articles and produce a full style guide. Use this exact prompt or tweak it to fit your needs:
Here’s a prompt you can use:
“Please analyze the following articles and create a detailed writing style guide based on them. I’d like you to break down the following:
Voice and tone (formal/casual, authoritative/conversational, etc.)
Writing structure (paragraph length, sentence patterns, headings)
Content patterns (how topics are introduced, use of examples, conclusions)
Formatting conventions (bullets, lists, emphasis styles)
Language choices (vocabulary, contractions, technical terms used)”
After I entered the prompt for my work, this is the guide it returned for me.
Ashley’s Personal Writing Style Guide
Based on analysis of your HashtagPaid articles, here's your distinctive writing style broken down into actionable patterns.
Voice and Tone
Overall Voice Profile
Conversational Authority - You write like a knowledgeable friend who happens to be an expert. You're approachable and engaging while maintaining credibility through data and examples.
Specific Tone Characteristics
Direct but friendly: "Let's take a look at..."
Problem-solution focused: You always frame challenges first, then provide actionable solutions
Culturally aware: References to current events, memes, and generational trends feel natural
Slightly skeptical but optimistic: You acknowledge problems ("Gen Z thinks your marketing is bad") but always provide hope
Inclusive: Heavy use of "you," "your brand," and "we" to create a partnership feeling
Voice Examples from Your Writing:
"Skip ad." It's become the "fast-forward" of our generation.
"What do Ryan Reynolds, Martini, Nestle, and McDonald's have in common?"
"Don't sleep on TikTok!"
Writing Structure
Paragraph Length Patterns
Opening paragraphs: 1-2 sentences (punchy hooks)
Body paragraphs: 3-5 sentences typically
Example/case study sections: Longer paragraphs (5-7 sentences) when telling stories
Transition paragraphs: Often single sentences
Sentence Patterns
Variety is key: You mix short punchy statements with longer explanatory sentences
Short impact sentences: "Yikes. Where's the 'skip' button?" / "Obviously, we know it's the latter"
Question-answer flow: Rhetorical questions followed by immediate answers
Parenthetical asides: "(For context, it took Facebook nearly nine years...)"
Fragment usage: Strategic fragments for emphasis: "Another example? Chipotle."
Heading Structure
Main headings: Descriptive and benefit-focused
"What investing in TikTok can do for your brand"
"How to create and optimize content for the TikTok algorithm"
Subheadings: Often numbered lists or direct actions
"1. Increase ROAS"
"Challenge #1: The 'paid promotion' problem"
Section transitions: Clear signposting language
Content Patterns
How You Introduce Topics
Cultural hook or surprising fact: Start with something relatable or shocking
Context setting: Provide industry backdrop with statistics
Problem articulation: Clearly state what challenge you're addressing
Promise of solution: Hint at what readers will learn
Example Opening Pattern: "It's 2017. TikTok is in its infancy, Instagram's UI is still tolerable, and YouTube doesn't have a premium subscription (that no one pays for)."
How You Use Examples
Multiple brand case studies: Typically 3-5 detailed examples per article
Story structure: Problem → Action → Result
Visual integration: Screenshots and social media embeds support examples
Specific metrics: Always include concrete numbers when available
Varied company sizes: Mix of big brands (McDonald's, Nike) and smaller companies (Steve Pronko Jewelry)
How You Conclude
Action-oriented: Clear next steps for readers
Reinforcement of main benefit: Remind why this matters
Motivational tone: Encourage experimentation
Future-looking: Often reference trends or what's coming next
Example Conclusions:
"Don't sleep on TikTok!"
"Want to reach Gen Z? Be real."
"The future of entertainment marketing guarantees success"
Formatting Conventions
Bullet Points
Used for features, benefits, and step-by-step instructions
Typically 3-8 items per list
Mix of single phrases and full sentences
Often preceded by explanatory text
Numbered Lists
For sequential processes: "8 tips to get on the right track"
For case studies: "5 examples of brands winning on TikTok"
For strategic points: "Here are her insights:"
Emphasis Techniques
Bold text: For key terms, metrics, and important concepts
Italics: For emphasis within sentences, brand names, or app names
Quotes: For statistics, expert opinions, and user comments
Parentheses: For clarification, context, or humor
Em dashes: For dramatic pauses or additional information
Visual Integration
Screenshots of social media posts, tweets, emails
Charts and graphs for data
Brand imagery to break up text
Social media embeds to show examples in context
Language Choices
Vocabulary Level
Accessible expertise: Industry terms explained when first used
Conversational vocabulary: "winning," "crushing it," "nailing it"
Technical precision: Proper use of marketing terminology (ROAS, CTR, engagement rate)
Current slang integration: When appropriate for context (but not forced)
Technical Terms Usage
Always define acronyms: "ROAS (or return on ad spend)"
Context provided: Explain the significance of technical concepts
Industry knowledge assumed: Don't over-explain basic marketing concepts
Platform-specific language: Use native terminology (For You Page, Stories, etc.)
Contractions
Frequent use: it's, they're, won't, don't, can't, you'll
Natural flow: Maintains conversational tone
Consistent throughout: Not formal/informal mixing
Specific Language Patterns
Question phrases: "So, what should marketers do?"
Transition phrases: "That being said," "Additionally," "Furthermore"
Emphasis phrases: "Make no mistake," "The worst part," "Here's the thing"
Call-out phrases: "Listen to this," "Take a look at," "Consider this"
Signature Style Elements
Opening Techniques
Time stamps: "It's 2017..." / "Back then..."
Cultural references: References to current events or generational experiences
Surprising statistics: Lead with compelling numbers
Question hooks: "What do [brands] have in common?"
Storytelling Patterns
Narrative arc: Setup → Conflict → Resolution
Specific examples: Named companies, specific campaigns, actual results
Behind-the-scenes insights: How strategies actually worked
Failure acknowledgment: When things don't work and why
Expertise Demonstration
Current trend awareness: Reference latest platform updates, cultural moments
Industry relationships: Quotes from real professionals
Data integration: Statistics from reputable sources
Practical experience: Advice that sounds tested, not theoretical
Reader Engagement Techniques
Direct address: Constant "you" usage
Rhetorical questions: Engage reader thinking
Parenthetical humor: "(that no one pays for)"
Relatable scenarios: Situations readers recognize
Clear benefits: Always explain "what's in it for you"
Content Themes
Core Topics You Cover
Creator economy trends and platform updates
Brand collaboration strategies and case studies
Generational marketing (especially Gen Z)
Social media algorithm insights
Influencer marketing best practices
Emerging platform opportunities
Your Unique Angles
Platform-native approach: Understanding each platform's specific culture
Creator-centric perspective: Always considering creator experience
Data-driven storytelling: Numbers support every major point
Trend prediction: Identifying opportunities before they're mainstream
Practical implementation: Always actionable, never just theoretical
Key Differentiators
What Makes Your Style Unique
Perfect balance: Conversational yet authoritative
Cultural fluency: Natural integration of current trends
Story-driven data: Statistics wrapped in compelling narratives
Action orientation: Every piece ends with clear next steps
Optimistic realism: Acknowledge challenges but focus on opportunities
Consistent Brand Voice Elements
Problem-solver mindset: Always addressing reader pain points
Trend spotter authority: First to identify emerging opportunities
Practical implementer: Focus on what actually works, not theory
Industry insider: Access to real examples and expert insights
Reader advocate: Always considering what's best for your audience
This style guide captures your distinctive approach to writing about marketing and creator economy topics while maintaining the perfect balance of expertise and accessibility.
Step 7. Ask for a Guide To Help You Write Better Blog Content (based on your writing DNA)
Once the style guide is generated, take it one step further: Ask the AI to write a guide on how to create blog posts in this exact style. You can use this prompt:
“Now, write a step-by-step guide that other writers can follow to replicate this style when creating blog content. Include structure, voice, formatting, and example templates.”
AI gave me this:
I've created a comprehensive guide that breaks down exactly how to write awesome blog posts using the effective style patterns I identified in your writing.
The guide covers:
🎯 The 5-Stage Framework: From hook formulas (like your "It's 2017..." opener) to motivational conclusions
📚 4 Proven Hook Formulas: Including your signature "surprising connection" and "time machine" approaches
💪 The Case Study Structure: How to write compelling brand examples with specific metrics and clear takeaways
🗣️ Conversational Authority Voice: Exactly how to balance expertise with approachability
📋 Practical Checklists: Research phases, writing flow, and pre-publish verification
📊 Success Metrics: How to measure and improve performance over time
The key insight is that your style works because it follows a reliable formula: cultural hook → industry context → 3-5 detailed case studies → tactical implementation → challenge solutions → motivational conclusion. But you execute it with a distinctive voice that feels like a knowledgeable friend sharing insider secrets.
The guide is structured so other writers can use it as a step-by-step blueprint while developing their own authentic voice within this proven framework. Each section includes templates, examples, and specific techniques they can immediately apply.
How to Write Awesome Blog Posts: The Complete Guide
Based on analyzing high-performing content, here's your step-by-step blueprint for creating blog posts that engage readers, build authority, and drive results.
The 5-Stage Blog Post Framework
Stage 1: The Hook (First 100 Words)
Your opening determines whether readers stay or leave. Use one of these proven hook formulas:
Hook Formula 1: The Time Machine
Start with a specific time period to create context and contrast.
Template: "It's [YEAR]. [Current state]. [Different reality]. Back then, [old way]. Now, [new way]."
Example: "It's 2017. TikTok is in its infancy, Instagram's UI is still tolerable, and YouTube doesn't have a premium subscription (that no one pays for)."
Hook Formula 2: The Surprising Connection
Connect unexpected brands/people around a common theme.
Template: "What do [Brand A], [Brand B], and [Brand C] have in common? They've all [shared action/outcome]."
Example: "What do Ryan Reynolds, Martini, Nestle, and McDonald's have in common? They've all used AI to create viral campaigns."
Hook Formula 3: The Shocking Statistic
Lead with a number that makes readers stop scrolling.
Template: "[Surprising percentage] of [target group] [unexpected behavior]. [Context sentence]. [Why this matters]."
Example: "72% of Gen Zers think brands need to do a much better job marketing to them. The worst part? They represent $600 billion in spending power."
Hook Formula 4: The Cultural Reference
Reference something everyone recognizes to create instant connection.
Template: "[Cultural reference]. It's become the [modern equivalent] of our generation. But it's also [hidden problem/opportunity]."
Example: "'Skip ad.' It's become the 'fast-forward' of our generation. But it's also the thorn in the side of $74 billion spent on video ads each year."
Stage 2: The Context Setup (Paragraphs 2-3)
After hooking readers, provide essential background that makes your main points meaningful.
Context Elements to Include:
Industry backdrop: Current state of your topic area
Key statistics: 2-3 compelling numbers that frame the issue
Problem articulation: What challenge are you addressing?
Stakes establishment: Why should readers care right now?
Context Formula:
Current situation: "Today, [current reality with stats]"
The problem: "But here's the issue: [specific challenge]"
The opportunity: "That's why [your solution/approach] matters"
Example Context Setup:
"With TikTok reaching 1 billion users in just four years (compared to Facebook's nine years), brands are scrambling to understand the platform. Approximately 65% of users skip ads as soon as possible, making traditional advertising approaches ineffective. That's why understanding TikTok's algorithm isn't optional—it's essential for reaching younger audiences."
Stage 3: The Proof Section (Main Body)
This is where you deliver your core value through detailed examples and actionable insights.
The 3-5 Case Study Structure
Always include 3-5 detailed brand examples that prove your points. Here's how to structure each case study:
Case Study Formula:
Brand introduction: "[Brand] is [brief context/why relevant]"
The challenge: "They faced [specific problem]"
The action: "Here's what they did: [specific strategy/tactic]"
The result: "[Specific metrics/outcomes]"
The takeaway: "The lesson? [actionable insight for readers]"
Example Case Study Structure:
Netflix is the second most followed brand on TikTok, so they're obviously doing something right. The challenge? Keeping their content relevant and engaging across different shows and audiences.
Here's what they did: They create content that makes fun of their own shows while showcasing their best assets. For example, this TikTok making fun of "You" removes all the main character's voiceovers, showing how little actual dialogue exists.
The result? Millions of views and engagement from fans who appreciate the self-aware humor.
The lesson? Use your best assets (your product or service) as content fodder, and don't be afraid to poke fun at yourself.
How to Source Great Examples
Mix company sizes: Include both major brands and smaller success stories
Vary industries: Don't stick to one sector
Include specific metrics: Always provide concrete numbers when available
Show different approaches: Demonstrate various ways to solve the same problem
Update regularly: Use recent examples (within past 6-12 months)
The Tactical Deep-Dive Section
After your case studies, provide actionable how-to content. Use this structure:
Tactical Section Formula:
Clear section header: "How to [achieve specific outcome]"
Brief intro: Why this matters and what readers will learn
Numbered list: 5-8 specific tactics
Implementation details: For each tactic, explain the "why" and "how"
Stage 4: The Challenge/Solution Deep-Dive
Address common obstacles readers will face and provide specific solutions.
Challenge/Solution Structure:
Challenge #1: [Specific Problem]
Challenge: [Detailed explanation of the obstacle]
Why it happens: [Root cause analysis]
Solution: [Specific, actionable remedy]
Example: [Real-world application]
Template Example:
Challenge #1: The "paid promotion" problem
Challenge: Unskippable ads reek of sponsorship and paid promotions, which calls attention to sponsorships and can potentially make them feel less organic.
Why it happens: When content feels like a commercial, it loses authenticity in viewers' eyes, especially when that influencer is a celebrity.
Solution: Make unskippable ads feel more authentic and helpful. The more it feels "native" to the platform, the better.
Example: Yemeksepeti's carousel format appeals to foodies who might already look for HD food content. At first glance, it looks like organic content someone might post about lunch.
Stage 5: The Motivational Conclusion
End with energy and clear next steps that inspire action.
Conclusion Formula:
Reinforcement: Remind readers of the main benefit
Urgency: Why they should act now, not later
Clear actions: 2-3 specific next steps
Motivational close: Energetic final sentence
Template:
[Main concept] can help your brand [primary benefit]. If you haven't already, [action 1], [action 2], and [action 3]. Start [specific encouragement related to your topic].
Example:
TikTok can help your brand generate awareness, sales, engagement, and so much more. If you haven't already, start your own TikTok account, create engaging content, and invest in TikTok ads. Don't sleep on TikTok!
The Conversational Authority Voice
Tone Guidelines
Your voice should feel like a knowledgeable friend who happens to be an expert. Here's how to achieve this:
Do This:
Use contractions freely: it's, they're, won't, don't, can't
Address readers directly: "you," "your brand," "your audience"
Ask rhetorical questions: "So what should marketers do?"
Use inclusive language: "we," "us," "let's"
Include parenthetical asides: "(that no one pays for)"
Strategic fragments: "Another example? Chipotle."
Cultural references: Reference current events, memes, trends
Avoid This:
Overly formal academic language
Passive voice constructions
Industry jargon without explanation
Generic advice without specific examples
Conclusions without clear next steps
Sentence Variety Formula
Mix these sentence types throughout your writing:
Short impact sentences (3-7 words): "Yikes. Where's the skip button?"
Medium explanatory sentences (12-20 words): "The obvious solution for platforms? Unskippable ads."
Long detailed sentences (20+ words): "According to TikTok's partners, a post-purchase analysis study found that when consumers were asked where they first heard of a product, 15% named TikTok as the discovery platform."
Fragment emphasis (2-5 words): "The result? Success."
Question transitions: "But how is the algorithm doing this?"
Visual and Formatting Strategy
Essential Visual Elements
Every blog post should include:
Header image: Relevant, high-quality visual that represents your topic
Screenshots: 3-5 examples showing your points in action
Social media embeds: When discussing social platforms, show actual posts
Charts/graphs: For any statistical claims
Brand imagery: Company logos and campaign visuals
Formatting Best Practices
Headings Structure:
H1: Your main title (benefit-focused)
H2: Major sections ("What [Topic] Can Do for Your Brand")
H3: Subsections and numbered items ("1. Increase ROAS")
H4: Challenge/solution breakdowns
Lists and Bullets:
Numbered lists: For processes, sequences, and examples
Bullet points: For features, benefits, and quick tips
Mixed formatting: Combine both when appropriate
Emphasis Techniques:
Bold: Key terms, important concepts, statistics
Italics: App names, brand names, emphasis within sentences
Quotes: For statistics, expert opinions, and user testimonials
Content Research and Preparation
Before Writing: The Research Phase
1. Trend Research (30 minutes)
Check platform native trending topics
Review recent industry reports
Scan competitor content for gaps
Note current cultural moments/references
2. Example Collection (45 minutes)
Gather 5-7 potential brand case studies
Screenshot relevant social media posts
Collect specific performance metrics
Verify all information is current
3. Expert Input (15 minutes)
Find 2-3 relevant expert quotes
Check for recent industry surveys/reports
Identify contrarian viewpoints to address
4. Structure Planning (30 minutes)
Choose your hook formula
Map out 3-5 case studies
Plan your tactical section
Outline 2-3 challenges to address
During Writing: The Production Flow
Writing Session Structure:
Hook first (15 minutes): Write multiple versions, pick the best
Context setup (20 minutes): Establish background and stakes
Case studies (60 minutes): One detailed example at a time
Tactical section (45 minutes): Step-by-step implementation
Challenges (30 minutes): Address 2-3 common obstacles
Conclusion (15 minutes): Clear actions and motivation
Quality Checkpoints:
After each section, ask:
Does this section deliver specific value?
Would I want to read this if I weren't the writer?
Are there concrete examples supporting every major point?
Can readers immediately apply this information?
Advanced Storytelling Techniques
The Problem-Solution Narrative Arc
Every great blog post tells a story. Here's your narrative structure:
Setup: Current industry reality (your hook and context)
Conflict: The challenge brands/readers face
Journey: How successful brands navigate this challenge (your case studies)
Resolution: Specific steps readers can take (your tactical section)
New Reality: What success looks like (your conclusion)
Building Expertise Through Details
Show don't tell your expertise through:
Specific Details:
Exact percentage improvements
Named individuals and their roles
Specific campaign dates and durations
Platform-native terminology
Behind-the-scenes insights
Current Knowledge:
Reference latest platform updates
Mention recent industry changes
Include fresh data (within 6 months)
Address current cultural moments
Practical Experience:
Advice that sounds tested, not theoretical
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
What doesn't work and why
Realistic timelines and expectations
Measuring Your Success
Engagement Indicators:
Time on page: Aim for 3+ minutes
Scroll depth: 70%+ should reach your conclusion
Social shares: Especially platform-native sharing
Comments/questions: Shows readers are thinking
Return visitors: Coming back for more content
Content Performance Metrics:
Organic traffic growth: Month-over-month increases
Keyword rankings: Improvement for target terms
Backlinks: Other sites referencing your content
Brand mentions: People discussing your insights
Lead generation: Email signups and demo requests
Iteration Opportunities:
Update examples: Refresh case studies every 6 months
Add new sections: Address reader questions in updates
Visual improvements: Better screenshots and graphics
SEO optimization: Improve meta descriptions and internal links
Quick Reference Checklist
Before publishing any blog post, verify:
Content Quality:
[ ] Hook grabs attention in the first 100 words
[ ] 3-5 detailed case studies with specific metrics
[ ] Actionable takeaways in every major section
[ ] 2-3 challenges addressed with solutions
[ ] Clear next steps in conclusion
Voice and Style:
[ ] Conversational but authoritative tone
[ ] Mix of sentence lengths and structures
[ ] Direct address to readers ("you," "your")
[ ] Current cultural references and trends
[ ] Contractions used naturally
Technical Elements:
[ ] Compelling headline with clear benefit
[ ] Proper heading structure (H1, H2, H3)
[ ] Visual elements support key points
[ ] All statistics cited and current
[ ] Internal and external links included
[ ] Meta description written
[ ] Social sharing optimized
Final Polish:
[ ] Read aloud for flow and rhythm
[ ] Fact-check all claims and statistics
[ ] Verify all links work properly
[ ] Proofread for grammar and spelling
[ ] Preview on mobile and desktop
This framework will help you create blog posts that not only inform but also engage, building both authority and audience loyalty over time.
Final thoughts
There’s no way I could manually crunch this much information, connect the dots, and pull out every subtle element of a writer’s style on my own. AI does the heavy lifting in minutes — analyzing dozens of pieces, spotting patterns I’d never notice, and handing me a step-by-step playbook I can use. This guide was a great starting point and surfaced things I hadn’t even considered.
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