Text & chat prompt
Run a pre-mortem on your plan
Run a pre-mortem on your plan: a free, copy-paste prompt for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste the prompt and replace each [BRACKETED] field with your own details.
The prompt
Imagine it is [TIME] from now and my plan has completely failed. The plan: [PLAN] Who is involved: [PEOPLE] Key assumptions: [ASSUMPTIONS] List the ten most likely reasons it failed, ranked by probability and impact. For each, suggest an early warning sign and one action I can take now to reduce the risk.
Pro tip: Do it before you commit money or announce the plan, while changing course is still cheap.
How to use this prompt
- Open ChatGPT and start a new chat.
- Paste the prompt.
- Replace each [BRACKETED] field with your real details and paste in your own text where asked.
- Reply with follow-ups such as "make it shorter" or "make it sound more like me".
Prompt at a glance
- Category
- Text & chat
- Works with
- ChatGPT · Gemini · Claude
- Length
- 53 words
- Fields to fill in
- TIME, PLAN, PEOPLE, ASSUMPTIONS
- Last updated
Frequently asked questions
Which AI tools work with this prompt?
It is written for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste it into your preferred tool and adjust the wording if the result is off.
What do I need to fill in?
Replace these fields before you send it: TIME, PLAN, PEOPLE, ASSUMPTIONS. Each field shows an example in the prompt.
Should I paste private information into the prompt?
Only what the task needs. Remove names, contact details and other sensitive data before pasting a resume or document into any AI tool.
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