Keep a working copy

Download the pre-send checklist (TXT)

Free download, no signup. Add your own notes and keep account details private.

1. Define one reader action

Write down what the reader should do: read an article, book a call or view a product. Use that action to check the main link, headline and content. As an example, a service update could contain a short explanation, one practical tip and a booking link. It does not need several competing offers to be useful.

2. Review the audience and sender

Check the selected group, exclusions and final recipient count. Investigate a count that is unexpectedly high or low. Use the provider’s required sender verification and domain-authentication process. A working Microsoft mailbox does not by itself confirm that your newsletter provider is authenticated to send for your domain. Follow the records shown in that provider’s account rather than copying another business’s values.

3. Preview content on a small screen

Check the subject and preview text together, then inspect the email on desktop and mobile. Read it with images unavailable and check that the main action remains understandable. Confirm that links open the intended public page, the reply address is correct and placeholder text has been removed. Include the plain-text version in your review.

4. Distinguish a preview from a functional test

MailerLite explains that preview test emails do not activate every feature, including the unsubscribe link. For a functional check, its guidance is to duplicate the draft and send it as a regular campaign to yourself. Use only a clearly identified test group containing addresses you control. Confirm its recipient count before sending; never use the full audience as a test group.

5. Check the schedule and final draft

Confirm the time zone, sending date, selected audience and plan allowance. Review the final version after your last edit. If a link changes after testing, check that link again. Record who approved the send so that another person does not accidentally schedule a second copy.

6. Record what happened

After sending, record the campaign identifier, selected recipients and the delivery, bounce, click and unsubscribe results available in the provider’s report. Note questions readers actually send back. Treat a small first campaign as a baseline for your own future work; do not turn it into a general claim about product quality.

Your next step

Sources and further reading

Plan terms can change. Confirm the current allowance and total price before subscribing.