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Write a PRD metrics section with one primary metric
Practice: Asking for a format you can use. About 5 minutes.
About this exercise
Your PRD needs a Success metrics section that reviewers can hold you to. Write exactly 3 numbered lines labeled 'Primary:', 'Guardrail:' and 'Guardrail:', each with a baseline, a target or limit, and a time frame from your notes, plain text, under 75 words. There can be only one primary metric, and vanity metrics the team rejected must not appear.
Common mistakes when you ask AI for this
- Asking for 'success metrics'. The AI lists 6-10 metrics with headings, including every idea in the notes. Try: Be exact: "Exactly 3 numbered lines: Primary:, Guardrail:, Guardrail:. Plain text."
- 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 instead: "each line under 20 words."
- Missing baselines and time frames. The AI names metrics without numbers, so nobody can tell later if they were hit. Try: Add: "Each line: baseline, target or limit, and the 8-week window."
- Bringing back rejected metrics. Page views and NPS are in the notes, and the AI includes them to be thorough. Try: Add: "Leave out page views, time in app and NPS."
What a strong prompt includes
- Shows the labels
- Asks for baselines and targets
- Drops rejected metrics
- Only one primary
- Sets a word limit
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