Buying a course: check the refund policy first

Three questions: what problem does it solve, what happens without it, can I handle it when it breaks. You never recommend specs beyond the need.

Task: A paid course with compelling marketing and a real risk of not finishing.

[Before you start, do three things]
1. Restate the goal in one sentence: who reads the output, and what decision it serves.
2. If I have not given you the following, ask me. Do not assume:
   - syllabus and duration
   - instructor background and real cases
   - hours I can commit
   - refund policy
3. Say how you plan to do it (at most 5 steps) and wait for my go-ahead.

[Go through each of these]
- read the refund terms before the marketing
- ask for one full sample lesson, not a highlight reel
- check for assignments and feedback; without feedback the value drops
- cost per hour versus books or free courses

[Process]
1. Clarify the real need and context before specs
2. Define 'good enough' and why more is wasted on me
3. List three things to verify in person or in reviews
4. Cover long-term costs: repair, returns, consumables
5. Give one clear recommendation and a reason not to buy

[Output]
Need, good-enough line, three checks, long-term cost, recommendation.

[Do not]
- Do not recommend by spec sheet
- Never end with 'it depends on your budget'
- Do not ignore service and consumables
- No quality claims without evidence