Have you ever typed something into ChatGPT or another AI tool and thought its answer was completely useless? Well this happens to a lot of users and the fix usually lies in how the question was asked. “Prompt Engineering” sounds complicated, but at its core, it just means writing clearer instructions. Moreover, once you know a few simple tricks, you’ll get drastically better results every single time. 

 

Why Does Your Prompt Matters?

AI tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini and Claude are only as good as the instructions you provide them. Picture This :

  • Ordering at a restaurant: the more specific your order, the more likely you’ll get exactly what you want. Say “something good” and the server could come back with anything. However, say “Burger with a side of fries and ketchup” and you know what’s coming. 

The same logic applies to AI. 

 

The #1 Mistake Most People Make

Most people treat AI like a search engine, they type 3 words and hit enter, that’s the main problem. 

  • Weak Example: “Write me an email”
  • Strong Example: “Write a short, friendly email to my client Sarah letting her know her project will be delayed by two days. Keep it professional but warm. No more than 5 sentences.”

 

The strong example provides clear direction and has a who, what, tone and length in the prompt. 

 

5 Simple Rules for AI Prompts

  • Be Specific: Say exactly what you want, not just the topic
  • Set the tone: Ensure to include what type of tone you want in the prompt
  • Give the AI a role: Try starting prompts with “Act as a teacher explaining this to a 5 year old”
  • Add Context: The more background you provide in the prompt, the more tailored the answer will become

 

Figure 1: Person Prompting on AI

This figure user prompting on AI tool

 

The Formula

The Beginner Prompt Formula:

[Role]  + [Task] + [Context] + [Length]

 

Example: “Act as a career coach. Write a LinkedIn summary for a 25-year-old switching from retail to IT. Keep it under 100 words and make it confident but not arrogant.”

 

Quick Prompt Updates to Try

These phrase additions help completely change the AI’s response to your task:

  • Add “in plain English” to any technical question
  • Say “give me 3 options” instead of asking for one
  • Use “ Step by Step” when you need instructions
  • Say “Rewrite this to sound more [tone]”
  • Lastly, add “for someone with no technical background”

 

More Learning 

At LearningComputer, we focus on practical computer skills that actually matter in school, internships, and everyday work. Instead of overwhelming tutorials, we break things down into simple steps you can apply immediately.

 

More Computer Training

 

About the Author:

This article was written by Yohaan Mutha. More Information can be found on Instagram