How to Create AI Prompts That Get Results: A Beginner's Guide

"Why doesn't AI understand what I want?" If you've ever asked this question, you're not alone. The truth is, "Prompt engineering is the art of asking the right question to get the best output from an LLM", and like any art, it takes practice.

But here's good news: There's a simple formula that works every time.

The 7-Step AI Prompt Formula

1. Start with Clear Objective Setting

Before typing anything, ask:

• What's my end goal?
• Who's this for?
• What format do I need?

2. Define the AI's Role

"Start by defining its role" in your prompt. Examples:

• "Act as a content strategist..."
• "You are a technical writer..."
• "As a marketing expert..."

3. Provide Essential Context

Context is crucial for quality outputs. Include:

• Background information
• Audience details
• Industry specifics
• Key terminology

4. Specify the Task

Be explicit about what you need:

• "Create a 500-word article..."
• "Generate 10 social media posts..."
• "Write a product description that..."

5. Set Format Requirements

Clarity on format prevents rewrites:

• Structure (headings, sections)
• Style (formal, conversational)
• Length (words, paragraphs)
• Deliverables (lists, summaries)

6. Add Constraints

"Use constraints to limit the scope of the model's output":

• What to avoid
• Length limitations
• Technical restrictions
• Compliance requirements

7. Request Self-Evaluation

"Instruct the model to evaluate or check its own responses":

• "Make sure to limit your response to 3 sentences"
• "Rate your work on a scale of 1-10 for clarity"
• "Check that all requirements are met"

Real Example: Email Marketing

Poor Prompt:
"Write an email for my product launch"

Result-Getting Prompt:
"As an email marketing specialist, create a product launch email for our new AI productivity tool. The audience is small business owners aged 30-50 who are tech-curious but not tech experts. Include:

• Engaging subject line
• 200-word body
• 3 key benefits
• Clear call-to-action
• Professional but friendly tone

Avoid technical jargon and focus on time-saving benefits. Check that the email follows best practices for open rates."

The Results Speak for Themselves

Organizations using proper prompt engineering report "58% said that their organization has achieved exponential productivity or efficiency gains from AI".

Start getting these results today. Signup for our visual Prompt Studio with expert crafted templates that make it easy to generate prompts that deliver the best results.

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