Write a decision memo that compares two options and recommends one

About this exercise

Write a one-page decision memo for the leadership team, in plain text, under 200 words. Use these labeled sections in order: Decision, Option A, Option B, Recommendation. The Recommendation line starts with "I recommend" and names one option. Show the cost math for each option in its section and use only numbers from the notes. Flag one open question for Finance at the end.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

• Missing the structure. The AI writes flowing paragraphs and bolds headings. Try: Say: "Sections in order: Decision, Option A, Option B, Recommendation."
• Skipping the math. The AI says Option A is 'expensive' without numbers. Try: Say: "Show the math for each option, like $9,000 x 12 = $108,000."
• Hedged recommendation. The AI says 'both have merit' and does not pick. Try: Say: "Recommendation starts with 'I recommend' and picks one option."
• Markdown formatting. The AI bolds the headings. Try: Say: "Plain text, no bold."
• 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 section: "each section under 40 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

• Lists the sections
• Asks for the math
• Forces a pick
• Asks for a Finance flag
• Plain text

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