say exactly what you want
name the thing you want, not a vague version of it.
give an example
an example makes a request impossible to misread.
soft requests
polite phrasing keeps a request easy to say yes to.
set the format
say the shape of the answer, not just the topic.
name the steps
spell out the order so nothing gets skipped.
say what to skip
saying what to leave out is as clear as what to include.
add the context
a sentence of background makes the request easier to act on.
a polite no
a clear no with a short reason is kinder than vague.
check before sending
a small checklist saves a back-and-forth.
add the limits
limits remove guesswork — give exact counts.
name the audience
who reads it changes how you write it.
set a deadline
a time turns soon into something real.
order of operations
numbered steps remove guessing about order.
make it precise
swap fuzzy words for exact ones.