Tips and Tricks for Better ChatGPT Prompt Engineering

Writing good prompts helps you get better answers from ChatGPT. Here are some simple ways to improve your prompts.

Be Clear and Specific

Say exactly what you want. If you need a list, ask for a list. If you want a short answer, say so.
Example:

• "List three ways to save energy at home."
• "Explain this in two sentences."

Give Context

Tell ChatGPT who the answer is for or what the situation is. This helps it give a better reply.
Example:

• "Explain Wi-Fi to a 10-year-old."
• "Write a summary for someone who has never used ChatGPT."

Use Simple Structure

Break your prompt into parts if you need more detail. You can use labels like "Task:" or "Info:".
Example:

• Task: Write a short email to a teacher about missing class.
• Info: The student is sick.

Try and Adjust

If the answer is not what you want, change your prompt and try again. Make your request more clear each time.
Example:

• First try: "Tell me about prompt engineering."
• Next try: "Explain prompt engineering in simple words with an example."

Give Examples

If you want a certain style or format, show what you mean.
Example:

• "Change these dates to numbers:
  January 2, 2025 → 2025-01-02
  March 5, 2024 →"

Ask for Steps

If the task is hard, ask for step-by-step help.
Example:

• "Explain how to make tea, step by step."

Ask for Self-Check

You can ask ChatGPT to check its own answer.
Example:

• "Check your answer for mistakes and fix them."

Use Simple Output Formats

If you want a table, code, or bullet points, say so.
Example:

• "Make a table comparing apples and oranges."
• "Write a Python function to add two numbers."

Set the Tone

If you need a certain style, mention it.
Example:

• "Explain like I'm five."
• "Write in a formal tone."

Avoid Common Problems

• Don't be vague.
  • Instead of "Make this better," say "Make this paragraph clearer."
• Don't forget to give context.
• Don't ask for too much at once. Break big tasks into small parts.

Summary

Good prompts are clear, simple, and direct. Give context, use examples, and ask for the format you want. Try different prompts until you get the answer you need.