How to Write Better AI Prompts (With Examples)

AI assistants respond to what you type. A vague request gets a vague answer; a clear request gets a much better one. Here's a simple formula.

The prompt formula

1. Task: what you want done.
2. Context: background information.
3. Audience: who it's for.
4. Format: length, style or structure.
5. Tone: friendly, formal, funny, simple.

Before and after

• Weak: "Write about saving money."
• Strong: "Write 5 short, practical tips for saving money on groceries, for a busy family of four, in a friendly tone, as a bullet list."

More useful tricks

• Ask for options: "Give me three different versions."
• Ask it to ask you: "Ask me questions before you start."
• Step by step: "Explain this step by step for a beginner."
• Refine: "Make it shorter and remove jargon."

Always review

AI is a helpful assistant, not a final authority. Check facts, edit the tone and make sure the result says what you mean.