Generative AI

Best Practices for Creating Effective Generative AI Prompts

1. Be Clear and Specific

• State exactly what you want AI to generate (summary, explanation, example, etc.).
• Avoid vague terms—be precise with your request.
• Example: Instead of "Explain photosynthesis," try "Explain the steps of photosynthesis in simple terms for a high school biology student."

2. Define the Audience and Tone

• Specify the intended reader’s knowledge level (beginner, expert, etc.).
• Indicate the tone (formal, conversational, persuasive, etc.).
• Example: "Summarize this academic article in a way that a high school student would understand."

3. Provide Context or Constraints

• Give background details if needed to refine the response.
• Set word limits or formatting guidelines.
• Example: "Write a 200-word summary of this article, focusing on key findings."

4. Use Examples or Templates

• Show the AI a format or structure you want it to follow.
• Example: "Generate a lesson plan for a one-hour class on climate change. Include learning objectives, activities, and discussion questions."

5. Request Step-by-Step Responses for Complex Topics

• Ask for explanations in a logical order.
• Example: "Break down the steps of solving a quadratic equation using the quadratic formula."

6. Experiment with Iterative Refinement

• If the response isn’t quite right, rephrase the prompt or add more details.
• Example: "Rephrase this response to make it more engaging and accessible for general readers."

7. Encourage Creativity When Needed

• Ask for unique ideas, alternative perspectives, or creative writing.
• Example: "Write a short science fiction story about AI in the year 2050."

8. Use Role-Based Instructions

• Tell the AI to act as a specific type of expert.
• Example: "Act as a history professor and explain the causes of the American Revolution."

9. Leverage AI for Comparison and Evaluation

• Ask for comparisons between ideas, methods, or arguments.
• Example: "Compare the benefits and drawbacks of renewable vs. non-renewable energy sources."

10. Keep Prompts Concise but Informative

• Avoid overly long or complicated prompts.
• Example: Instead of "Write a detailed report on the impact of AI in healthcare, including historical context, current applications, and future trends," break it into multiple prompts.