The SAP Test: Suggestion, Advice, or Prescription?
- suneel172
- Aug 9
- 2 min read
The SAP Test: Suggestion, Advice, or Prescription?
Because not all tips are created equal.
Tips. Input. Recommendations. Everyone’s dishing them out.
"Try this…" "You should do this…" "You must do this right away."
But not every tip carries the same weight.
Some are gentle nudges.
Others are strong pushes.
And then there are those that scream: "Don't argue. Just act!"
Welcome to the world of S-A-P:
Suggestion. Advice. Prescription.
Understanding the difference isn’t just useful — it’s essential for both giving and receiving guidance.
1. Suggestion: The Whisper
A suggestion is light. Casual. Optional.
It says:
“Here’s a thought — take it or leave it.”
It’s like recommending a new café, a book, or a productivity tool.
Low stakes.
No pressure.
When to give it?
When you don’t know the full context.
When the other person isn’t ready for change.
When you want to open a door, not push someone through it.
Example: "Have you ever thought of trying a different approach with that client?"
2. Advice: The Nudge
Advice carries more intent. It says:
“I believe this is the right thing to do — and I think you should do it.”
There’s a tone of direction, possibly even experience behind it.
Advice is earnest, sincere, and often grounded in lessons learned.
When to give it?
When someone asks for your opinion.
When you’ve walked that road yourself.
When the outcome truly matters.
Example: "In your situation, I’d suggest setting clearer boundaries with your team."
3. Prescription: The Line in the Sand
This is non-negotiable. It’s the “do it, now” kind of guidance.
Not an opinion. Not a request. A directive. Think doctor to patient. Pilot to co-pilot. Mentor to mentee in a crisis.
When to give it?
When there’s risk, urgency, or significant consequences.
When you’re in a position of responsibility or expertise.
When hesitation would harm more than help.
Example: "You need to stop ignoring that health issue and see a specialist now."
Why This Distinction Matters:
For Speakers & Leaders: Know your tone. Don’t deliver a prescription when the audience expects a suggestion. Don’t confuse the room — or overwhelm it.
For Coaches & Mentors: Learn to shift between SAP modes. Sometimes people just need options. Sometimes they need a push.
For Everyday Interactions: Ask yourself: Am I offering perspective, or issuing a command?
Flip the Script: When You’re on the Receiving End
Understanding SAP also helps you respond better:
A suggestion? Explore it. No harm done.
Advice? Consider the source — and weigh it.
A prescription? Take it seriously — or at least understand the urgency behind it.
Final Thought
Every tip is not created equal. Some ideas are shared with curiosity.
Some with concern.
And some with conviction.
The magic is in knowing the difference — and using the right one at the right time.
So next time you offer help, clarity, or direction, ask yourself:
Am I suggesting, advising… or prescribing?
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