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Rewrite cryptic journal entry memos as a plain-word CSV

  • For Accountants
  • You practice Asking for a format you can use
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Intermediate

About this exercise

The practice manager reads journal entries in the monthly report and can't decode memos like "rev Oct util accr". Write a prompt that returns only one CSV code block: header je_id,description, then one row per entry in order, each description in double quotes, under 15 words, in plain words with the dollar amount and no account numbers or abbreviations. Watch what "rev" means here.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Getting a lecture instead of a file. The AI explains each entry in paragraphs with headings, not a block you can paste. Try: Say: "Output only one CSV code block, nothing before or after it."
  • No header or row rules. The AI invents columns like date, debit and credit, and adds blank or extra rows. Try: Give it: "Header je_id,description, then exactly one row per JE in order."
  • Keeping the jargon. The AI copies 'PPD' and 'accr' and account numbers, which the reader can't decode. Try: Add: "Plain words, include the dollar amount, no account numbers or abbreviations."
  • Misreading 'rev'. Without context, the AI may read 'rev' as revenue. Try: Tell it: "Here 'rev' means reversal of last month's accrual."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Asks for one CSV block
  • Gives the header
  • Bans jargon
  • Explains 'rev'
  • Says who reads it

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