Build your own prompt.

Your five answers.

1. D
   Destination What do you want to walk away with?

   I want to end up with

   Name the thing and its shape: what it is, who it is for, how long. Example: a clear yes, no or not yet on getting a dog this spring, with the three reasons that decided it.

2. R
   Reality What is true for you?

   The facts a stranger would need: who, how much, by when, what you already tried. Example: We’re two adults in a second-floor apartment, both out from 8 to 6 three days a week, with about $150 a month to spare.

3. E
   Example What does good look like?

   Here’s the kind of thing I mean:

   One short sample of the answer you hope for, or of how you write. Example: Not yet. Your Tuesdays are the problem, and here is what would fix them.

4. A
   Ask What should it ask you first?

   Before you answer, ask me

   Let the assistant interview you before it answers. Say how many questions. Example: up to five questions, one at a time.

   Use the usual line

5. M
   Measure How should it check itself?

   Before you finish, check your answer:

   Ask for its assumptions, its weakest claim and the case against. Example: tell me what you assumed about us, give the best argument for the opposite verdict, and name what I should ask a vet or a shelter instead of you.

   Use the usual line