ChatGPT is a remarkably versatile tool that can be used for writing, solving problems, learning, etc. Writing appropriate prompts can make the most out of it. So, here are 10 ways to help you build better prompts, making ChatGPT even more helpful for you.
Be Specific and Clear
So the bottom line with ChatGPT, as I’ve said be as clear as possible. A model is a prompt giving the chatbot enough information to e.g. correctly answer your question with a helpful response.
Example:
See also: Examples of vague prompts.
Specific: “What were the causes and effects of World War II?”
By taking such a narrower approach, you will receive answers specific to what you are looking for.
Use Step-by-Step Instructions
Help ChatGPT provide a more structured output by breaking your request into smaller steps.
Example:
“Can you explain the Pythagorean theorem in simple language. Then give an example problem with the solution.
This way you can make sure that the chatbot knows the role and can provide you with the same expected results.
Provide Context
Providing context in your prompt helps ChatGPT customize its answers. Know what the audience needs or the goal of the work
Example:
“Draft a professional email to a potential client pitching our marketing services.”
So, with this context the response will also align with the tone and intent you were asking for.
Set a Desired Tone or Style
ChatGPT can match your tone and style. Indicate if you’ll like the response in formal, informal, persuasive, or funny tone.
Example:
In other words, the output should tell the large language model to:
The output will thus be consistent with the style you want.
Request Examples or Comparisons
If you are trying to learn something new, or explain a concept, have ChatGPT give you some examples or comparisons.
Example:
“Describe how blockchain technology works with a real-world analogy.”
Such examples ease understanding by providing context in a complex topic.
Use “Act As” Prompts
You can prompt ChatGPT to respond as a specific person to help narrow down the answer.
Example:
“Pretend you are a career counselor and give advice for someone who is transitioning to the tech industry.”
That means it can give targeted, relevant advice.
Ask for Summaries or Make it Simpler
If you are looking at some complicated information, ask ChatGPT to summarise or simplify it.
Example:
“Without using too many words, summarize this article in three sentences.”
This is a fast way of digesting a lot of content.
Use Open-Ended Questions
For anything brainstorming or creative, leave your prompts open-ended — you want a lot of different ideas.
Example:
“How to market a small bakery uniquely?”
This can elicit a myriad of responses and cultivates creativity.
Iterate and Refine Prompts
If the response isn’t quite what you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to adjust your prompt. Craft your query better to receive an improved response.
Example:
Original prompt: “Tell me about space.”
Polished prompt: “Describe the various kinds of galaxies and how they are formed.
The more granular your prompt, the more ameliorate the outcome.
Play with Length and Detail
Providing a longer prompt and more details can occasionally yield a response better suiting your needs. Play around with the wording and content to see what sticks.
Example:
“Write a three-paragraph introduction to a book about climate change aimed at high school students.”
The more specific you are with your prompts, the better ChatGPT canntune its results to what you actually want.
Bonus Tip: Request ChatGPT to Self-Edit
If you’re unhappy with the answer, you can ask the chatbot to review and improve its own response.
Example:
Rewrite your last response to be less verbose and more professional.
You get formed and better results because of this.
Conclusion
Writing effective prompts is essential to making the most of ChatGPT. But with clarity, context, and experimentation with styles and formats, you can unlock even more potential from this chatbot for your tasks. Use these tips and then see how much more productive and insightful your conversations with ChatGPT will be.
