Explain an AP subledger-to-GL difference and flag the manual entry

About this exercise

You're reconciling the AP subledger to the general ledger control account at Nov 5. Write a prompt for plain text with lines starting "Difference:", "Item 1:", "Item 2:", "Unexplained:" and "Flag:". Show the arithmetic. The Flag line names any manual entry posted directly to the control account for the controller to review. Don't say the entry is wrong or approve it. Under 90 words. No bullets or numbering.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

• Approving the manual entry. The AI says the entry is fine because it's small. Try: Add: "Do not say it is right or wrong; flag it for the controller."
• Missing the timing explanation. The AI treats both items as errors. Try: Say: "Item 2 is timing: the interface posted Nov 5, the subledger Nov 6."
• No unexplained math. The AI states 'fully explained' with no subtraction. Try: Add: "Unexplained = difference minus both items, with the arithmetic."
• Markdown extras. The AI adds bold labels, headings and a closing note. Try: Say: "Plain text, no bold. Output only the lines asked for."
• Trusting the AI to count words. AI is bad at counting and runs past word limits. Try: Ask for fewer words than the real cap and keep each line short.

What a strong prompt includes

• Names the five lines
• Gives the arithmetic
• Names the manual entry
• Bans judgment
• Caps length

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