How to Write a Great AI Prompt

A good prompt isn't magic words. It's clear instructions. The models are capable; most bad outputs come from vague inputs. Here's a framework that consistently lifts quality.

1. Give the model a role

Start by telling the AI who it is. "You are a senior copywriter" or "Act as a Python code reviewer" primes the model to answer with the right expertise and tone.

2. State the task plainly

Say exactly what you want done. "Summarize this article in five bullet points" beats "tell me about this." Ambiguity is where results go to die.

3. Provide context

Paste the source material, describe your audience, name your goal. The model can't read your mind, so the more relevant context you give, the less it has to guess.

4. Specify the format

Ask for a table, a numbered list, JSON, a tweet, 200 words. Defining the shape of the output saves you a round of edits.

5. Add constraints

Tell it what to avoid: "no jargon," "keep it under 100 words," "don't invent facts." Constraints are how you steer without micromanaging.

Put it together

"You are an experienced travel writer. Write a 150-word intro for a guide to Lisbon aimed at first-time visitors. Warm, practical tone. No clichés like 'hidden gem.'" That's role, task, context, format, and constraints, all in one line.

Browse thousands of prompts built on exactly these principles on PromptingIndex, and upvote the ones that work for you.