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Write fixed asset schedule notes that flag policy problems

  • For Accountants
  • You practice Catching mistakes and made-up facts
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Intermediate

About this exercise

You're adding notes to the Q3 fixed asset schedule for controller review. Write a prompt for a table with columns Item | Amount | Note, one row per item in the order listed. Notes start with "FLAG:" when an item may not meet the capitalization policy or isn't equipment, and the controller decides. Show the math for the A-201 monthly depreciation and the FA-088 trade-in gain. Under 190 words.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Trusting the AP coding. The AI accepts everything in 1500 Equipment because AP coded it there. Try: Say: "Check each item against the $2,500 policy and whether it's really equipment."
  • Deciding instead of flagging. The AI states reclass entries as if they were booked. Try: Add: "Start problem notes with FLAG: and leave the decision to the controller."
  • Numbers without working. The AI gives a depreciation amount or a gain with no math to check. Try: Ask: "Show the math: cost / months, and trade-in minus book value."
  • No fixed table. The AI writes paragraphs per asset or adds its own columns. Try: Give the columns: "Item | Amount | Note, one row per item in order."
  • Trusting the AI to count words. Reviews of asset activity grow long with summaries and recommendations. Try: Say: "Each note under 20 words. Output only the table."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Names the columns
  • Checks the policy
  • Flags, doesn't decide
  • Asks for the math
  • Sets length

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