17 golden rules that will help you write prompts that actually work.
We all know ChatGPT can do a lot. But here is the truth: it only works as well as the prompts we give it.
A weak prompt brings vague answers. A strong prompt gives clear, helpful, and usable results. Writing better prompts is not about being fancy. It’s about being simple, direct and thoughtful.
Here are 17 golden rules that will help you write prompts that actually work.
1. Define the Objective
Be clear about what you want. Instead of Explain blockchain, say Explain blockchain for beginners in two short paragraphs.
2. Specify the Format
Decide how you want the answer -bullet points, paragraphs, steps, or a table. Example: Give me 5 bullet points about healthy snacks.
3. Assign a Role
Ask ChatGPT to play a role. Example: Act as a teacher and explain fractions to a 10-year-old.
4. Identify the Audience
Who is going to read this? A student, a CEO, or a beginner coder? Example: Write a Git guide for first-year computer science students.
5. Provide Context
Give background so ChatGPT understands better. Example: Write a polite email to my professor apologizing for missing class due to illness.
6. Set Constraints
Set limits like word count or number of ideas. Example: Explain climate change in under 100 words.
7. Use Clear Language
Keep prompts simple and direct. Say Explain in simple words instead of Elaborate on the intricacies.
8. Include Examples
Show what you want. Example: Write a motivational quote like: ‘Small steps every day add up to big results.
9. Specify the Tone
Tell ChatGPT if you want the tone formal, casual, funny, or serious. Example: Write a product description in a casual tone.
10. Ask for Step-by-Step Explanations
For tricky topics, ask for a breakdown. Example: Explain how to create a website, step by step, for a beginner.
11. Encourage Creativity
Invite new ideas. Example: Give me 5 fun date ideas that don’t cost much.
12. Request Citations
When facts matter, ask for sources. Example: List 3 studies that show the benefits of meditation.
13. Define Technical Terms
Say how much detail you need. Example: Explain APIs in simple terms, without jargon.
14. Be Concise
Prompts should be short but clear. Don’t over-explain.
15. Avoid Multiple Questions
Stick to one request per prompt. If you have more, split them.
16. Test and Refine Prompts
Don’t stop at one try. If the result is not right, change your wording and try again.
17. Provide Feedback
If the response feels off, ask for changes. Example: This is too formal. Rewrite it in a friendly tone.
Why Prompts Matter
Think of prompts as instructions you give to a friend. If you tell your friend, Cook something, you might get anything from noodles to rice. But if you say, Can you make noodles with extra veggies, less oil, and spicy sauce? the result is closer to what you actually want. Same with ChatGPT. The better your prompt, the better the response.
A Quick Example
❌ Weak prompt: Tell me about AI.
✅ Strong prompt: Act as a teacher. Explain AI to a beginner in 3 short paragraphs, using simple examples. Keep the tone casual.
Final Thoughts
Writing good prompts isn’t about being complicated. It’s about being specific, clear, and honest about what you want. If you only remember four things, make it these:
- Be clear.
- Be specific.
- Give context.
- Set the style.
Follow these and you will notice your ChatGPT responses become much more useful.
Thanks for Reading 🚀🚀👩💻
