Learning Timeline
Key Insights
The Importance of Verb Selection
Choosing different verbs for the same reference source will drastically change the output. 'Summarize' only provides a brief overview, while 'Compare' provides an in-depth analysis.
The Sweet Spot for Examples
Providing 2 to 3 examples (Few-shot prompting) is the ideal amount. It is enough for the AI to lock onto the writing style without confusing the model.
Reverse Engineering 'Master Prompt' Technique
Once you have achieved the perfect result through a long conversation, ask the AI: 'Write a single prompt that would recreate this output from scratch'. This saves time for similar tasks in the future.
Prompts
Contextual & Constraints Prompt Example
Target:
ChatGPT / Claude
I'm launching a productivity app for freelancers. My budget is limited, and I need marketing ideas that don't require paid ads.
Step-by-Step Reasoning Prompt Example
Target:
ChatGPT / Gemini
List the tasks for this project, identify the dependencies, calculate the sequence, and then tell me the finish date.
Step by Step
Step 1: Setting Context and Constraints
- Identify your current situation (e.g., launching a productivity app).
- Define the target audience for the task.
- State any limitations or constraints you are facing (e.g., limited budget, no paid ads).
- Include the end goal you want to achieve within the prompt.
- Write the background information in detail to reduce the risk of the AI 'guessing'.
Step 2: Defining Specificity (Verbs & Format)
- Choose the right 'verb' based on the type of analysis you want (e.g., 'Summarize' for a summary, 'Compare' for comparative analysis, or 'Turn into action items' for a to-do list).
- Explicitly define the output format you need.
- Ask the AI to generate specific formats like 'Timeline', 'Table', or 'Bullet points' if necessary.
Step 3: Implementing One-Shot Prompting
- Provide one example (pattern) of the desired output (e.g., one completed paragraph of a team bio).
- Paste the example into the AI chat.
- Instruct the AI to follow the writing style and length based on the provided example.
- Use 2 to 3 examples if you want the AI to follow more complex patterns (Few-shot prompting).
Step 4: Iteration Process & Step-by-Step Reasoning
- Submit your first prompt draft and review the output.
- Identify any missing information or unsuitable styles.
- Provide additional instructions (refine) to improve the result incrementally through a back-and-forth conversation.
- Use the 'Step-by-Step Reasoning' technique by asking the AI to list logical steps before providing the final answer (e.g., ask the AI to list tasks and dependencies before determining a project end date).
- Ask the AI to write a 'Master Prompt' that incorporates all refinements made for future use.
