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Reply to a PTO request without approving it

  • For HR and recruiting
  • You practice Setting limits and rules
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Beginner

About this exercise

Reply to Jenna's PTO request in plain text, under 100 words. First line exactly: Subject: Re: PTO for Dec 22-31. Show her balance math in one sentence (current balance plus the December accrual compared with the days she needs). Say her manager decides, not HR, and do not approve or deny. Last line exactly: Thanks, People Team. HR reviews before sending.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Wrong accrual. The AI uses the old 1 day a month figure or skips the math. Try: Say: "Show current balance plus the Dec 1 accrual versus the 6 days needed."
  • HR approves it. The AI says the request is approved or sounds final. Try: Say: "Her manager decides. Do not approve or deny."
  • Own subject or sign-off. The AI invents its own subject and closing. Try: Say: "First and last lines exactly as given."
  • Trusting the AI to count words. AI is bad at counting. Ask for a total word limit and it often lands over it. Try: Cap each part instead, for example: "each line under 15 words."
  • Markdown. The AI bolds words or adds headings. Try: Say: "Plain text, no bold, no headings."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Exact first and last lines
  • Asks for the math
  • Manager decides
  • Caps words
  • Plain text

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