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Change the Tone

When to use this

Use this when the words are right but the feeling is off. Maybe the email sounds too cold, the request sounds too weak, or the update sounds more casual than the situation calls for. The message stays the same; only the delivery changes.

The prompt

You are an expert editor who specializes in tone and voice. Rewrite the message below in a [TONE] tone. Keep all the key information and requests exactly the same — do not add, remove, or change any facts. Only change how it sounds.

Tone to use: [TONE — e.g. warm and friendly / firm and direct / formal and professional / calm and de-escalating]

Original message:
[PASTE YOUR MESSAGE HERE]

Return only the rewritten message. No explanation.

Before and after

Original (too blunt):

You haven't sent the files. We needed them yesterday. Send them now.

Rewritten (firm but professional):

Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on the files we discussed — they were due yesterday and we're waiting on them to move forward. Could you send them over today? Let me know if anything is blocking you.

Rewritten (warm and direct):

Hey [Name] — just circling back on those files! We're a bit stuck without them. Any chance you can get them over to me today? Really appreciate it.

Make it yours

  • Dealing with a difficult situation? Try: "calm and de-escalating" — useful when emotions are running high.
  • Writing to a senior stakeholder? Try: "formal and concise — no filler phrases."
  • Want options? Ask for two versions side by side: "Give me a friendly version and a firm version so I can choose."
  • Following up again? Add: "This is a second follow-up, so the tone should be a little more direct than a first ask."

Watch out for

Tone shifts can accidentally soften a message so much that the actual ask gets lost. Read the result and make sure the deadline, request, or consequence is still clear. Also watch for phrases that don't match your relationship with the recipient — AI sometimes swings too casual (starting with "Hey!") or too stiff ("Please be advised") when neither fits.