How to write a great concept draft request

The five things to put in one sentence so your first draft is close to what you want.

Start with what it is and who it's for

"An electric boat" gives a generic draft. "An electric boat for 10 people for 2-hour lake tours" gives one you can use. Say who uses it and how.

Give the size or the capacity

Length, seats, load, area or volume. If you don't know, give the job instead: "carries 300 lb of cargo", "powers a workshop".

Say your budget

A budget changes the materials and parts. "About $60,000" steers the draft toward choices that fit.

Add must-haves and limits

Off-grid, towable by a small car, fits through a 36-inch door, street legal, quiet. These rules shape every section.

Say where it will be used

Your country and state change the rules and permits list, and climate changes materials.

Then change it by asking

The first draft is a start. Ask for a smaller size, a cheaper battery or another material, and the draft is updated. Attach a photo or sketch if you have one.

Concept drafts are for planning, budgeting and talking to professionals. They are not engineering or build plans. Have a qualified professional check any design before you build or use it.