| Be Specific |
Use clear, precise language |
"Generate a 5-point marketing plan for an eco-friendly water bottle" vs "Give me marketing ideas" |
When you need focused, relevant outputs |
| Use Examples |
Provide samples of desired output |
"Rewrite this in a professional tone: 'Hey dude, got your email'" |
To guide the model's style/format |
| Chain of Thought |
Break complex problems into steps |
"First, identify the variables in this equation. Then solve for x." |
For logical/mathematical problems |
| Role Prompting |
Assign a role to the AI |
"As an experienced cybersecurity analyst, review these firewall logs" |
When domain expertise is needed |
| Few-Shot Learning |
Provide several examples before the main task |
"Example 1: [input→output], Example 2: [input→output]. Now do: [new input]" |
For establishing patterns |
| System Instructions |
Set overall behavior guidelines |
"You are a helpful assistant who specializes in summarizing medical research" |
To establish consistent behavior |
| Temperature Control |
Adjust creativity vs precision |
(Temperature 0.2: precise, 0.8: creative) |
Low for factual/code, high for creative |
| Format Specification |
Request specific output format |
"Respond in a JSON object with keys for 'analysis' and 'recommendation'" |
For structured data or parsing |
| Constraints |
Set limitations |
"Explain quantum computing in under 100 words using only 5th-grade vocabulary" |
To control scope/complexity |
| Iteration |
Refine outputs in steps |
"Take this draft and improve its structure while keeping the content intact" |
For progressive refinement |
| Context Loading |
Provide relevant background |
"Here's my previous code: [code]. Help me debug the error in line 27" |
When prior information matters |
| Persona Specification |
Define audience or perspective |
"Explain blockchain for a finance professional" |
To tailor explanations appropriately |
| Metaphors & Analogies |
Request explanations using comparisons |
"Explain HTTPS using a postal mail analogy" |
For simplifying complex concepts |
| Emotional Tone |
Specify desired emotional quality |
"Write an encouraging email declining a job candidate" |
To control the emotional impact |
| Anti-Prompt |
Specify what to avoid |
"Explain SEO without using technical jargon" |
To prevent unwanted content |
