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Write a one-line RAG status for each project with a reason

  • For Product managers
  • You practice Asking for a format you can use
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Beginner

About this exercise

Write the weekly status for your VP: exactly 4 numbered lines, one per project, in the format: 1. Project - Green/Amber/Red - reason in under 12 words. Use the status rules in this task: Red = a date is already missed or blocked more than 5 days; Amber = at risk but dates hold; Green = on track. Use only the notes and the latest information.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Wrong format. The AI writes a table or a paragraph. Try: Say: "Format each line like: 1. Project - Status - reason."
  • Using the stale status. The AI marks Dune Red from the early note. Try: Say: "Use Thursday's update: Dune is unblocked."
  • Long reasons. The AI writes full sentences. Try: Say: "Reason under 12 words."
  • 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 line: "each line under 22 words."
  • 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 12 words."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Shows the line format
  • States the status rules
  • Uses latest info
  • Limits the reason
  • Output only lines

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