Try this
- Underline the action you want to discuss. Move background examples into a separate private note.
- Write a short version containing the subject, the request and any real timing constraint. Leave room for another workable proposal.
A worked example
“Could we confirm weekend plans by Thursday evening? If that is too early, what would give us both enough notice?”
An invented example to adapt, not a real exchange or a script you have to follow.
Before you leave it here
Check that the short version has not hidden a second request or a demand for agreement. The recipient should be able to tell what answer is being asked for.