write-the-intel-brief

Write sourced intelligence reports with estimative probability language, chain of custody, and redaction.

38|2|Updated Aug 2, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/UseOSINT/Skills --skill write-the-intel-brief-useosint
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
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Skill: write-the-intel-brief
Source: https://github.com/UseOSINT/Skills/tree/main/skills/write-the-intel-brief
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/UseOSINT/Skills --skill write-the-intel-brief-useosint

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve? Investigation findings lose credibility when reports blur observation with inference, cite sources loosely, or use vague probability language. This Skill turns raw OSINT findings into a defensible intelligence product that survives cross-examination, regulatory review, and litigation. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Claim classification: Separates every statement into observation, inference, or assessment, with per-claim sourcing, retrieval timestamps, source grades, and archived copies. - Standardized estimative language: Enforces a fixed probability ladder (almost certain through remote) with probability and confidence kept as separate axes, plus a banned-terms table. - Evidence handling: Chain of custody with SHA-256 hashing, exhibit registers, negative findings documentation, gap analysis, and redaction of uninvolved third parties. - Use Case: After completing due diligence on a supplier, produce a report with a BLUF key judgement, an observation table with archived sources, documented negative findings on sanctions lists, and a redaction log for a legal audience. ## Quick Start Write up my investigation findings on the supplier as an intelligence report with key judgements, sourced observations, and negative findings.

Frequently Asked Questions about write-the-intel-brief

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I write an OSINT intelligence report that holds up to scrutiny?▼

Sort every claim into observation, inference, or assessment, attach a source with retrieval timestamp and archived copy to each, and lead with a BLUF key judgement. Use a fixed probability ladder and state confidence separately from probability.

What is the difference between probability and confidence in intelligence analysis?▼

Probability is how likely a judgement is to be true, expressed with ladder terms like likely or highly unlikely. Confidence is how good the underlying evidence is, graded high, moderate, or low based on sourcing, corroboration, and gaps.

How do I establish chain of custody for digital evidence?▼

Hash each artefact at collection time with sha256sum or shasum -a 256, record who collected it, when, and with what tool and version, and keep originals immutable while working on copies. Log every custody transfer and every redaction.

What estimative probability words should I avoid in intelligence reports?▼

Avoid possible, cannot be ruled out, may, might, suggests, significant, and clearly, since they carry no quantified estimate. Replace them with ladder terms such as likely, roughly even chance, or highly unlikely, and print the ladder in the report.

When should I use the evidentiary report format instead of the standard one?▼

Use the evidentiary variant when material may reach a regulator, court, or disciplinary process. It keeps the body observation-only, adds an exhibit register with hashes, separates inference into its own section, and requires an analyst statement.