HOW TO WRITE EFFECTIVE CHATGPT PROMPTS
Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Be Clear and Specific: Tell ChatGPT exactly what you want. The more specific you are, the better the response.
- Set the Scope: Narrow down your question to avoid overly broad answers.
- Ask Directly: Pose clear questions or requests to guide the answer.
- Give Context: Provide background details so ChatGPT understands the situation.
- Specify the Format: Mention if you need a list, a plan, a script, etc.
ChatGPT Prompt Examples
Example ChatGPT prompts used in various settings. We illustrate (1) A poor — or vague request, (2) A better — or more specific request and (3) An explanation as to why the better request, or GPT prompt, will yield a more accurate and useful response.
1. In The Office
Vague Request:
Tell me about project management.Better Request:
Can you list some key project management methods and describe when each is best used?Why This Works: This version asks for a list and descriptions, making it easier to get useful, targeted information.
2. In The Kitchen — Cooking
Vague Request:
How do I make pasta?Better Request:
Can you provide a recipe for creamy Alfredo pasta, including ingredients and step-by-step instructions?Why This Works: This gives a specific type of pasta and asks for detailed instructions, which is much more practical.
3. Sales & Marketing
Vague Request:
How can I improve my marketing?Better Request:
What are some effective digital marketing strategies for a small e-commerce business to boost brand awareness and customer engagement?Why This Works: This question targets specific goals and business types, leading to more relevant advice.
4. In The Classroom — Lesson Planning
Vague Request:
Help me with a lesson plan.Better Request:
Can you outline a 45-minute lesson plan for 5th graders on the water cycle, including activities, materials, and objectives?Why This Works: This request specifies the grade level, topic, and class length, which helps tailor the plan effectively.
5. In Software Coding
Vague Request:
How do I code in Python?Better Request:
Can you give me a simple Python script that reads a CSV file and calculates the average of a specific column?Why This Works: This request specifies the task and programming language, leading to a precise, helpful response.
6. Customer Service
Vague Request:
How do I handle customer complaints?Better Request:
What are the best practices for handling customer complaints in a retail store, especially for product quality issues?Why This Works: This question focuses on best practices and a specific context, making the advice more practical.
7. Managing Money
Vague Request:
How do I manage my money?Better Request:
Can you suggest a budgeting plan for someone with irregular income, detailing how to allocate funds for savings, expenses, and investments?Why This Works: This request details the situation (irregular income) and asks for a specific plan, making the advice more actionable.
8. Fitness
Vague Request:
How can I get fit?Better Request:
What is a weekly workout plan for a beginner to improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength? Please include exercise types and duration.Why This Works: This question focuses on specific fitness goals and asks for a detailed plan, leading to more useful guidance.
Quick Recap
- Be Specific: Use clear and precise language.
- Set the Format: Ask for the answer in a specific format if needed.
- Provide Background: Include relevant details to frame the response.
- Limit the Question: Avoid broad questions to get more focused answers.
- Ask for Details: Request actionable steps or examples.
