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Flag meta descriptions that run too long

Practice: Asking for a format you can use. About 5 minutes.

About this exercise

Write one Google Sheets formula for C2 (filled down) that checks the meta description in B2 against the character limit kept in $F$1. Measure the trimmed text. Show OK when it fits, or Cut N when it's over, where N is how many characters to cut (e.g. Cut 12). Leave C2 blank when B2 is empty. One formula in one code block, then under 25 words outside the code.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Not pointing at the limit cell. The AI types 155 or 160 into the formula, so a changed limit means editing every row. Try: Add: "Use the limit in $F$1."
  • Not showing the output. The AI returns TRUE/FALSE or "Too long", which doesn't tell the writer how much to cut. Try: Add an example: "OK, or Cut 12 when it's 12 over."
  • Forgetting empty rows. An empty description shows OK, so missing ones look fine. Try: Add: "If B2 is empty, leave it blank."
  • Getting a menu of options. The AI likes to offer two or three versions of the formula, so you're left to pick and test them yourself. Try: Add: "Give one formula only, in one code block, no alternatives."
  • Getting a tutorial. By default the AI explains every part of the code at length, which you then have to scroll past. Try: Add: "After the code, one line under 10 words. Nothing else."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Points at the limit cell
  • Shows the output
  • Trims first
  • Handles empty rows
  • Asks for one answer only

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