In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to build the perfect prompt with examples, tips, and even a handy JSON template you can reuse for your own AI projects.
What Is a Prompt?
A prompt is the instruction or input you give an AI model. It tells the AI what to do much like a recipe tells a cook what ingredients and steps to use.
Think of prompting as recipe-writing: clear steps + specific ingredients = predictable results.
Step 1: Be Specific
Vague prompts create vague results. Instead of saying:
“Write an article.”
Try this:
“Write a 450-word article for beginner readers about saving for an emergency fund. Use a friendly tone, include 3 bullet points, and end with a motivational quote.”
Specificity helps the AI understand exactly what you want.
Step 2: Provide Context
Tell the AI who the content is for, what format you expect, and any background it should know.
Example:
“You’re a financial coach writing a newsletter for young professionals. Explain why saving early matters.”
More context = more accurate results.
Step 3: Set Constraints
Constraints are limits that guide the AI such as tone, length, or format.
Example:
“Keep it under 500 words, use a conversational tone, and include at least one real-world example.”
Constraints prevent “drifting” and keep the output consistent.
Step 4: Ask for Structure
Well-structured outputs are easier to read and publish. Request headings, bullet lists, or numbered steps.
Example:
“Use H2 headings and bullet lists for clarity.”
Step 5: Use Examples
Show the AI what good looks like.
Example:
Good: “How to save ₱10,000 in 6 months.”
Bad: “Saving is important.”
By giving examples, you help the AI match your style and expectations.
Step 6: Iterate and Refine
Your first output is a draft. Refine it by asking follow-up questions:
“Make it more concise.”
“Reframe for Gen Z readers.”
“Add credible sources.”
Each revision improves quality.
Quick Prompt Checklist
Before sending your prompt, make sure it includes:
1. A specific goal
2. Context
3. Constraints
4. Structure
5. Examples
6. Refinement
Save this checklist it’s your foundation for great AI conversations.
Bonus: JSON Prompt Template
If you want to store your prompts or share them with your team, use this JSON format:
{
"goal": "Write a 450-word article for beginner readers about saving for an emergency fund.",
"context": "Financial coach writing for young professionals.",
"constraints": ["<450 words", "Friendly tone", "3 bullet points", "Motivational ending"],
"structure": ["H2 headings", "Bulleted list"],
"examples": {
"good": "How to save ₱10,000 in 6 months.",
"bad": "Saving is important."
}
}
This structure helps organize your prompts and makes collaboration easier.
Final Thoughts
Polished prompts = better results. The more effort you put into designing your instructions, the more impressive your AI outputs become. Think of prompting as a skill one that grows stronger with every experiment.
Save this post for future reference and share it with anyone trying to get better at prompting.