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Write a monthly business review narrative with three fixed sections

  • For FP&A and financial analysts
  • You practice Keeping the AI to your sources
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Intermediate

About this exercise

Write the October narrative for the monthly business review. Use exactly 3 sections headed Headline, Drivers and Watch next month, in that order, with 1-3 sentences under each and no bullets. The Headline opens with revenue versus plan, showing the math. Revenue must leave out anything the controller says can't be recognized yet. Under 150 words.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Reporting the flash number. The AI uses the $4.4M flash revenue and misses the controller's note. Try: Add: "Use final revenue of $4.2M; the Pellham order isn't recognized until November."
  • Letting it pick the sections. The AI invents its own headings and adds an executive summary. Try: Name them: "Exactly 3 sections: Headline, Drivers, Watch next month."
  • Calling timing a saving. The AI says opex came in under budget as if money was saved, when the spend just moved a month. Try: Ask: "Say whether each driver is timing or a real change."
  • Bullet-point narrative. The AI turns a narrative into a bullet dump. Try: Say: "1-3 sentences per section, no bullets, under 120 words."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Names the sections
  • Uses the final revenue
  • Shows the math
  • Bans bullets
  • Sets a length limit

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