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Compare a shared cost allocation by headcount and by revenue
- For FP&A and financial analysts
- You practice Asking for a format you can use
- Time about 5 minutes
- Level Intermediate
About this exercise
You're showing how two allocation methods split a shared cost. Write a prompt for a markdown table with columns Dept | Heads | Revenue | By headcount | By revenue | Difference, one row per department, then a line starting "Policy method:" naming the method the policy uses. Difference = by revenue minus by headcount. Don't argue for either method or mention which department prefers which. No commentary. Under 100 words.
Common mistakes when you ask AI for this
- Using the revenue method as policy. The AI treats revenue allocation as the official one. Try: Add: 'Line "Policy method: headcount".'
- Wrong difference direction. The AI subtracts the other way. Try: Say: "Difference = by revenue minus by headcount."
- Arguing a side. The AI says revenue is fairer for B. Try: Add: "Do not argue for either method or mention preferences."
- Wrong columns. The AI drops one method. Try: Say: "Columns exactly: Dept | Heads | Revenue | By headcount | By revenue | Difference."
- 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 columns
- Gives both formulas
- Names the policy method
- Bans preferences
- Limits output
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