---
name: make-cl
description: Decide whether a cover letter adds value and, when justified, generate a concise evidence-first LaTeX letter from an approved session and resume. Use for requested letters, Swiss/DACH motivation letters, meaningful transitions, or employer-specific formats; skip generic optional letters.
---

# Decide and Generate a Cover Letter

## Startup

1. Read `shared_ops.md`, `resume_builder/canonical/claims.json`, `cl_reference.md`, the session, real JD and finished resume.
2. Run the validator on the resume.
3. Confirm that the session has a completed resume and a recorded Cover Letter Decision.

## Decision Gate

If the session says NO, explain the recorded reason and stop unless the user explicitly asks to override it. If no decision exists, apply `cl_reference.md` before writing and record YES/NO.

Do not generate a letter merely because an upload field exists or because older workflow expected a three-page package.

## Plan

State in one sentence what the letter adds beyond the resume. Select at most two evidence themes. Verify any named company/product/programme hook from a current primary source and save its URL in the session.

If the only possible content repeats resume bullets or paraphrases company news, change the decision to NO and explain why.

## Generate

- Use the selected audience profile and employer-requested language.
- International Tech/industry: normally 200--300 words in two or three paragraphs.
- Swiss/DACH: one A4 page, appropriate formality.
- Employer-specific: follow the requested format or portal limit.
- Lead with candidate-role connection.
- Add motivation, decision context or a genuine connection.
- Use only claims already present in both the canonical registry and resume.
- Never introduce a new tool, metric, customer, ownership claim or result.

## Verify

Run:

```powershell
python resume_builder/helpers/validate_resume_system.py --document <resume.tex> --document <cover_letter.tex>
```

Compile and inspect the letter. Confirm it is readable, within the employer's limit, and materially different from the resume. Update the session and present the letter for approval. Point to `/critique` next.