Template
Write known, unknown and assumed as different states
Uncertainty becomes dangerous when formatting erases it.
When it fits
- A status update blends verified facts, guesses and missing information.
When to avoid it
- Do not use 'unknown' as an excuse to omit available evidence; name the next way to reduce uncertainty where it matters.
A template to use
Known: [verified]. Unknown: [missing]. Assumption for now: [assumption]. Revisit when: [evidence/trigger].
Why it matters
Use three explicit buckets when the distinction affects action: known facts with source or observation, unknowns that block confidence, and assumptions currently used to proceed. Add what would change the assumption.
An example
'Known: transport imported. Unknown: downstream job result. Assumption: no customer impact until AIF check completes.'
Check your result
A reader can tell which statements may change without rereading the whole thread.
Keep this limit in mind
- Do not use 'unknown' as an excuse to omit available evidence; name the next way to reduce uncertainty where it matters.
Connected ideas
Useful withPut the caveat beside the decision it can change
Evidence and sources
Supports
CDC guidance explicitly recommends distinguishing what authoritative sources know and do not know rather than presenting uncertainty as settled.
The exact evidence standard depends on domain; this supports uncertainty labeling, not scientific review of ordinary work messages.
How to Use the CDC Clear Communication Index · State of the science item