The Hook Machine workflow (Sandcastles MCP + Claude)
MCPUpdated October 8, 2026
Understanding the Hook Machine Workflow
The Hook Machine is a powerful tool that combines Hook Researcher, Hook Generator, Hook Grader, and Hook Reviser into one seamless workflow. It allows you to analyze a creator's top-performing videos, extract winning hook patterns, build a custom grading rubric, and generate/grade/rewrite hooks for any new topic. You can work across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.
Workflow:
- Sign up for an account on Sandcastles (must be Pro, Visionary or Titan plan)
- Connect Sandcastles to Claude and install the Sandcastles plugin:
- Add the Sandcastles connector in Claude by following How to set up the Sandcastles MCP in Claude.
- Add the plugin, which adds the Sandcastles slash commands, from the Claude directory at https://claude.ai/directory/sandcastles. If you uploaded the plugin zip file before, follow How to update the Sandcastles MCP plugin in Claude.
- Start a new Task in Claude Cowork. Paste the Prompt: LINK
Key Features and Benefits:
- Comprehensive Analysis: Analyzes top-performing videos to identify winning hook patterns.
- Customizable Rubric: Build a grading rubric tailored to your specific needs.
- Hook Generation: Generates 5 hooks adapted from winning formats and 5 original hooks, all graded and ranked.
- Data-Driven Insights: Provides insights into why certain hooks perform better than others.
- Cross-Channel Synthesis: Combines patterns across different channels for a holistic view.
- Format Library: Access a library of 16 winning hook formulas sourced from your data.
Important Considerations:
- Credit Usage: Credit usage will correlate with the number of videos you deep analyze
- Video Selection: We recommend you analyze at least 15 videos per channel for the best results, but you can adjust this number based on your needs.
This workflow provides a robust system for understanding and generating effective hooks, ultimately helping you create more engaging and successful content.
Related articles
- How to set up the Sandcastles MCP in Claude
- How to update the Sandcastles MCP plugin in Claude
- How to use the Hooks tab in Sandcastles
If you have any questions, please reach out to support@sandcastles.ai.
