SCQA (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer)

Summary

Set the shared Situation, introduce the Complication that disrupts it, surface the Question it raises, deliver the Answer (which becomes your governing thought).

Origin

Barbara Minto - the storyline that introduces a pyramid.

Structure

Situation -> Complication -> Question -> Answer.

When to use it

Framing why a topic matters before teaching it; openers and executive framing.

In Nalanda

A course or module opening sequence; pairs naturally with Minto for the body.

Notes & tips

Pitfalls to avoid. A complication the audience doesn't feel; a question the answer doesn't actually solve.

See also

Minto Pyramid Principle - Duarte Sparkline