The “So What?” test is a simple editing framework that helps Product Managers write with clarity and purpose. You apply it by reading each sentence, bullet point, or slide in your message and asking:
“So what?”
If the answer isn’t immediately clear, the sentence likely needs to be:
- Rewritten to explain its importance
- Moved later or cut entirely
- Reframed to show impact or relevance
When to use it
- Executive updates
- Roadmap communications
- Launch briefs
- Strategy docs
- Slack or email updates
What it helps you fix
- Over-explaining context
- Burying key points
- Adding information with no clear value
- Polished writing that lacks meaning
The goal is simple: ensure every sentence earns its place by making an impact, driving a point, or moving the reader forward.
That’s it. Ask “So what?”—and keep only what matters.