How to write a stay request that gets accepted

Hosts get a lot of copy-paste requests. The ones that get a yes usually:

• mention something specific from the host's profile
• give exact dates and how many people
• say a bit about who you are and why you're travelling
• are sent 1-3 weeks ahead, not the night before

Hosts: what makes you say yes? Travellers: what worked for you? Share your tips below.