Tools & checklists
Short, practical checklists you can use today — covering repair quotes, refunds, scam response, AI prompts, and remote work.
Home repair quote checklist
- Take photos and a short video before calling.
- Note the appliance brand, model, and age.
- Get at least 3 written estimates for jobs over $500.
- Confirm license, insurance, and warranty in writing.
- Avoid paying more than 10–25% upfront.
Contractor call prep
- Describe the problem in one short sentence.
- Ask: minimum service-call fee?
- Ask: hourly rate vs. flat-rate quote?
- Ask: parts markup and warranty period?
- Ask for an arrival window, not just a day.
Refund request checklist
- Find the order ID and exact charge date.
- Quote the policy clause that supports your request.
- Open a written ticket — keep the transcript.
- Ask for a clear yes/no plus a reference number.
- If denied, escalate or open a card chargeback.
Subscription cancellation checklist
- Cancel from the original billing source (App Store / Play / web).
- Screenshot the cancellation confirmation.
- Note your last paid-through date.
- Remove saved payment methods.
- Set a reminder before any free trial ends.
Scam response checklist
- Do not click links or call back the message number.
- Open the official app yourself in a new tab.
- If you shared an OTP or card, freeze the card now.
- Change your password and enable 2FA.
- Report to your country's cyber-crime portal.
AI prompt starter
- Role: 'You are a careful editor / planner / coach'.
- Task: one sentence, exact and specific.
- Context: paste the source text.
- Format: bullets, table, or word count.
- Constraints: tone, audience, what to avoid.
Remote work setup checklist
- Dedicated desk and chair you can use for hours.
- Webcam at eye level, light in front of your face.
- Wired headset or good earbuds for calls.
- Backup mobile hotspot for important meetings.
- Clear start/stop ritual to protect personal time.
These checklists are general information only — not legal, financial, medical, or emergency advice. For urgent issues, contact a qualified professional or the relevant official channel.