Editorial · Weekly
Deep Dive Newsletter Template
One long, well-researched essay per issue. One topic per issue, explored in 2,000–4,000 words with original framing, references, and a strong point of view. Lower frequency, higher trust.
Who this template is for
Subject-matter experts who want to be cited and quoted, and to build authority over time.
Issue structure
- Headline + dek. A specific claim and a one-sentence summary of the argument
- The setup. Why this topic matters now and what most people get wrong about it
- The argument. 3–5 sections that build a single clear thesis
- Counterpoints. Honest acknowledgement of the strongest objections
- What it means. Concrete implications for the reader
When to use this template
- ✓ You have genuine expertise and original ideas in a defined niche
- ✓ You'd rather have 5,000 deeply engaged readers than 50,000 lurkers
- ✓ Your monetisation will come from speaking, consulting, or paid subscriptions — not ad CPMs
Examples that work
Newsletters using a version of this template successfully:
- Stratechery
- Casey Newton's Platformer
- Mary Meeker (when she writes)
Use this template in Aldus
Aldus's AI editor uses this template as a starting prompt — paste your sources and the editor produces the first draft in your voice. Suggested prompt:
Topic: Deep-dive essay on [specific question]. Voice: Authoritative, structured, willing to take a position. Length: 2,500 words. Structure: setup, three argument sections, honest counterpoints, implications. Source list: [paste]. Do not soften the argument with hedges.
Frequently asked questions
How does AI help with deep-dive newsletters where the value is the original take?
Aldus drafts the structure, summarises the source material, and produces the first 80% of the prose. The original argument and the editorial judgement remain entirely yours — the AI removes the friction of getting words on the page.
Can I publish a deep-dive newsletter twice a month instead of weekly?
Yes. Fortnightly is the most common cadence for serious deep-dive newsletters — it gives readers time to actually read the piece before the next one lands.