Getting Started with AI
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Workbook: A letter that gets results

Goal: write a calm, firm letter to fix a problem — a bad product, a billing error, poor service — that actually gets a response.

When something's gone wrong, it's easy to get emotional — and an angry letter usually gets ignored. AI helps you write one that's polite, clear, and firm, which is what actually works.

Watch a real conversation

You
A store sold me a space heater that broke after two days, and they won't give me a refund. I want to write a letter but I get too worked up. Can you help?
AI
I'm sorry — that's frustrating, and a calm, firm letter is exactly the right move. To write a strong one, tell me: When did you buy it, and what went wrong? What have they told you so far? And what would you like to happen — a refund, or a replacement? Do you have a receipt or order number?
🧊 Notice: the AI helps you lead with facts, not anger. It asks what you want — a clear goal makes a letter powerful.
You
Bought it three weeks ago, it quit after two days. They said I'm past the 14-day return window. I want a full refund. I have the receipt.
AI
Here's a draft:

"Dear Customer Service, On [date] I purchased a [model] space heater (receipt #____). It stopped working after two days. While I understand your 14-day return policy, a product that fails almost immediately is a different matter — a faulty item should be refunded or replaced regardless of the window. I am requesting a full refund of $____. I've enclosed a copy of my receipt and look forward to your reply within 14 days. Sincerely, [name]."

Want it firmer, or softer?
📄 Notice: facts + a clear request + a deadline. That structure is what makes a letter hard to brush off.
You
Make it a touch firmer, and mention I'll contact my credit card company if it's not resolved.
AI
Done — I added a polite but clear line: "If we cannot resolve this, I will dispute the charge with my credit card company and may file a complaint with my state's consumer protection office." It signals you know your options without being threatening. Firm, fair, and effective.
⚖️ Notice: you set the firmness and added leverage. Naming your next step (a card dispute) is a calm, powerful nudge.
You
If the store still ignores me, who else can I contact?
AI
Good to have a plan: (1) ask for a manager or corporate customer service; (2) dispute the charge with your credit card company (often the fastest fix); (3) file with the Better Business Bureau; (4) contact your state consumer protection office or attorney general. Most problems get solved at step 1 or 2 — but it helps to know the whole ladder.
🪜 Notice: it knows the escalation ladder. Even if the first letter doesn't work, you're never out of options.
Calm and firm beats angry every time. You turned frustration into a clear, businesslike letter — and you know your next moves. This same approach works for billing errors, insurance denials, contractor disputes, and HOA problems.

Now you try — climb the ladder

Swap in your own situation. Tap Copy to begin.

❓ How do I paste after I copy?
  1. On a phone or tablet: tap once inside the typing box, then press and hold until Paste appears — tap it.
  2. On a computer: click in the box, then hold Ctrl and press V (on a Mac, Command + V).
🌱 Just ask
One plain request.
Help me write a polite but firm letter asking for a refund on a product that broke right away.
🌿 Add a detail
The facts make it strong.
I bought a space heater three weeks ago; it broke after two days. The store says I'm past their 14-day return window. I have the receipt and want a full refund. Write the letter.
🌳 Go back and forth
Set the firmness and add leverage.
Make it a little firmer, and mention I'll dispute the charge with my credit card company if it isn't resolved.
🏔️ Make it yours
Get versions to send, plus a backup plan.
Give me a clean final version I can print and mail, plus a shorter email version. Also list who else I can contact if the store ignores me.

What you just learned

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