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Prompts and Outputs

Updated Jan 01, 2025 ·

Overview​

A prompt is more than a question; it is carefully crafted. Effective prompts have three traits:

  • Clarity: Reduces ambiguity with relevant context.
  • Specificity: The more specific, the closer to the desired answer.
  • Open-endedness: Allows for creative and non-obvious results.

Example:

  • The context: A chef making a peanut butter sandwich.

    I'm a chef preparing a unique peanut butter sandwich.

  • Specifics:

    Create a peanut butter sandwich using whole grain bread, organic peanut butter, and additional ingredients for a gourmet twist.

  • Open-ended:

    Can you also suggest some unique ingredients or techniques to elevate the flavor and presentation of the sandwich?

Common Pitfalls​

Avoid these pitfalls:

  • Overloading: Too much information dilutes the query.
  • Ambiguity: Vague prompts lead to generalized answers.
  • Over-Complication: Jargon or complex phrasing confuses the model.

Refinement is Key​

Prompts are iterative. Feedback-driven refinement enhances quality, creating a continuous improvement loop.

Elements of a Prompt​

  • Instructions

    • Clear instructions reduce ambiguity.
    • Instead of "What is the name of the monarch?"
    • Specify "What is the name of the current monarch in Denmark?"

  • Persona

    • Adopting a persona ensures relevance and quality.
    • Instead of "Write me a short story,"
    • Use "You are J.K. Rowling. Write me a short story about magic."

  • Output Format

    • Specify the desired format.

    • Example:

      I'm applying for a job as a data scientist. Create a checklist for how I can best prepare.

  • Context

    • Provide background information to guide the response.

    • Example:

      Write a summary with 3 bullet points on Charles Duhigg's book "The Power of Habit". What does it says about habit formation?

Output Control Techniques​

Maximizing ChatGPT's potential isn't just about asking the right questions; it's also about steering responses in the right direction. Think of yourself as guiding an informational orchestra to play exactly what you want.

Guiding Acronym​

To get the best results, use the acronym SALT:

  • Style: Define the format.
  • Audience: Tailor the content.
  • Length: Decide on short or detailed.
  • Tone: Set the mood.

SALT helps ensure your interactions meet your expectations.

Style​

Style shapes the response. Be specific for structured outputs:

  • "Describe the solar system" → paragraph
  • "List the planets in the solar system" → organized list

Example: "Provide steps to make the perfect blueberry pancake."

Audience​

Tailor prompts to the audience for relevance:

  • Simple, engaging explanations for kids.
  • Technical details for professionals.

Example: "Explain machine learning like I’m 5."

Length​

Control the response length for concise or detailed answers:

  • "Write a haiku about prompt engineering with ChatGPT."
  • Snapshot vs. detailed view, choose as needed.

Tone​

Tone adds mood:

  • Formal explanation

  • Casual chat

  • Playful story

Example: "Write a formal recommendation letter for Lauren applying for a senior data science position. Add a humorous sentence about why Mike’s car dealership has the lowest prices in the country at the end of each paragraph." This blends formality with humor effectively.