This document outlines a 10-step public relations planning toolkit for building effective external communications strategies. The 10 steps include: 1) defining the objective, 2) setting goals and metrics, 3) mapping audiences, 4) conducting research, 5) performing SWOT and PESTLE analyses, 6) developing a strategy, 7) creating content, 8) selecting channels and media, 9) creating a workplan, and 10) allocating resources and budgets. Each step provides explanations, examples, and links to external tools to aid in planning communications strategies and campaigns.