Guide 101 : How to Write Effective Prompts

How to Write Effective Prompts: Prompt engineering plays a crucial role in working with gen AI models. When providing instructions to an AI to act as a specific role, it’s important to be clear, detailed, and give context to ensure the AI can generate the desired responses.

Here’s a step-by-step guide along with examples:

Key Elements

1: Define the Role

Clearly state what role the AI should assume.

similar as you play the role of mother and wife in the house and your job role in your organization as HR, Accountant, Dr, etc.

How To Write Effective Prompt | Define the Role
How To Write Effective Prompt | Define the Role


2: Provide Context:

Give background information or a scenario to set the stage.

You as HR in the office your boss has given you job description during joining , what areas you need to look at.

How To Write Effective Prompt | Provide Context
How To Write Effective Prompt | Provide Context

3: Specify the Task:

Describe what you want the AI to do within the role given.

Same example as HR role your boss can ask to provide 100 resumes of candidates for specific job positions from online portal.

How To Write Effective Prompt | Specify the Task
How To Write Effective Prompt | Specify the Task

4: Give Examples (if necessary):

Provide examples of how the AI should respond or behave.

5: Set Boundaries:

Mention any constraints or boundaries to keep the responses on track.

In HR role your boss can say don’t include candidates whose % is less than 60%. and provide all resumes in a folder as hard copies.

How To Write Effective Prompt | Set Boundaries
How To Write Effective Prompt | Set Boundaries

Example Instructions for Different Roles

Role: Customer Service Representative

  • Define the Role: “Act as a customer service representative for a tech company.”
  • Provide Context: “A customer is having trouble with their new smartphone.”
  • Specify the Task: “Assist the customer in troubleshooting the issue with their phone.”
  • Examples:
    • “Hello, thank you for contacting our support team. How can I assist you today?”
    • “Can you please describe the issue you’re experiencing with your smartphone?”
    • “Let’s try restarting your phone. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.”
  • Set Boundaries: “Provide only troubleshooting steps related to common smartphone issues.”

Role: Career Advisor

  • Define the Role: “Act as a career advisor.”
  • Provide Context: “A recent graduate is seeking advice on entering the tech industry.”
  • Specify the Task: “Offer guidance on how to start a career in tech, including job search tips and essential skills.”
  • Examples:
    • “Congratulations on your graduation! Have you identified any specific areas of tech you’re interested in?”
    • “Building a strong foundation in coding languages such as Python or Java can be very beneficial.”
    • “Networking is crucial. Consider joining tech meetups or online forums to connect with industry professionals.”
  • Set Boundaries: “Focus on advice for entry-level positions and avoid discussing non-tech related careers.”

Role: Fitness Coach

  • Define the Role: “Act as a fitness coach.”
  • Provide Context: “A client wants to lose weight and build muscle.”
  • Specify the Task: “Create a workout and nutrition plan for the client.”
  • Examples:
    • “For weight loss and muscle gain, a combination of cardio and strength training is ideal.”
    • “Start with 30 minutes of cardio three times a week and incorporate strength training exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups.”
    • “Ensure your diet includes plenty of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet to support your fitness goals.”
  • Set Boundaries: “Provide general fitness advice and avoid giving medical advice.”

Read Also: The Rise of Large Language Models: A Revolution in AI

List of roles with primary responsibilities

RoleResponsibolity
Customer Service RepresentativeAssists customers with inquiries, complaints, and support related to products or services.
Career AdvisorProvides guidance on career paths, job search strategies, resume building, and interview preparation.
Technical Support SpecialistTroubleshoots technical issues, provides software and hardware support, and guides users through problem-solving steps.
Fitness CoachDesigns workout plans, provides exercise advice, and offers nutrition tips to help clients achieve their fitness goals.
Content WriterCreates written content such as blog posts, articles, and marketing copy tailored to specific audiences and purposes.
TutorHelps students understand academic subjects, explains concepts, and provides study tips and homework assistance.
Financial AdvisorOffers advice on financial planning, investments, budgeting, and retirement planning.
Sales RepresentativePromotes and sells products or services, handles customer inquiries, and manages sales leads.
Event PlannerOrganizes and coordinates events, including logistics, vendor management, and event promotion.
Marketing SpecialistDevelops marketing strategies, manages campaigns, and analyzes market trends to boost brand visibility and sales.
Travel AgentAssists with planning travel itineraries, booking flights, accommodations, and activities, and provides travel advice.
Life CoachSupports individuals in setting and achieving personal goals, enhancing well-being, and overcoming challenges.
Legal AdvisorProvides basic legal advice, explains legal terms, and offers guidance on legal procedures and documentation.
Health CoachGuides individuals on healthy lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and mental well-being.
Language TranslatorTranslates text or speech between languages, ensuring accuracy and cultural relevance.
Real Estate AgentAssists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, providing market insights and negotiation support.
Software DeveloperWrites, tests, and maintains software code, solving technical problems and developing applications.
ResearcherConducts research, gathers data, and analyzes findings to support academic, scientific, or business projects.
Public Relations SpecialistManages communications, builds media relationships, and handles public image and reputation management.
ChefProvides recipes, cooking tips, and meal planning advice, specializing in different cuisines or dietary requirements.
Read Also: The Art of Prompt Engineering: Mastering the Language of Large Language Models (LLMs)

Template

Act as [Role]. Provide responses in the following format:

[Format Description]

Example:
[Example Response]

Context: [Provide Context Here]
Task: [Specify the Task Here]

Video Explanation