How to Ask ChatGPT the Right Way — Prompt Basics
Better answers start with better questions. Learn the 4 core rules of writing prompts — with examples.
80% of getting great results from AI comes down to how you ask. The same question, asked two different ways, returns completely different quality.
Rule 1 — Give context
AI doesn't know who you are or what you're working on. Start with: “I run a small business and I'm writing for my Facebook page...”
Rule 2 — Specify the format
How do you want the answer — a list, a table, a paragraph? Say it: “Give me a list of 5 points.”
Rule 3 — Show an example
Paste a sample you like and AI will pick up the style. This is called few-shot prompting.
Rule 4 — Ask it to think step by step
For complex problems, write: “Think through this step by step before answering.” Errors drop dramatically.
Practice: take any old question you've asked, rewrite it with these 4 rules, and compare the difference yourself.
