Instinct AI series
A practical AI assistant workflow: capture, verify, act, review
An AI assistant is most useful when it reduces follow-up without hiding the evidence. The workflow below keeps the person in control of decisions while moving routine work forward.
1. Capture the outcome
Start with the result you want, not a list of clicks. “Find the open items from these notes” is clearer than prescribing every search step.
2. Verify the source
Before acting, check the current email, calendar, site or document that owns the fact. A remembered price, date or status can be stale.
3. Separate preparation from commitment
Research, drafts and shortlists can move quickly. Sending a message, publishing, booking or spending should wait until the exact final state is approved when approval is needed.
4. Leave a useful closeout
A strong closeout says what changed, gives the usable link, and names anything still blocked. That is what lets the work leave your head.
Example: a barber appointment
The assistant can find a suitable shop, verify hours and availability, and prepare the booking details. The final appointment time and any cost stay visible for review before a commitment is made.