A usable prompt makes the task, source material, and expected result clear. You can set elaborate role descriptions aside at first and focus on the work itself.
Four useful ingredients
Context identifies the audience and situation. The task says whether to summarize, compare, or rewrite. Constraints define length, evidence, and structure. An example helps when the required format could be misunderstood.
A starting prompt
“For a reader new to this topic, use only the notes below to write a summary under 150 words. Include three key points and one example from the source. Mark missing information as unconfirmed instead of filling it in.” Then supply material you are allowed to use.
Improve one thing at a time
If the answer is too broad, narrow the scope. If the structure is wrong, provide a format. If it adds facts, clarify the allowed sources. Keep versions so you can see whether a change helped.
Exercise and acceptance criteria
Turn “Tell me about AI” into a task that can be evaluated. Specify an audience, length, source material, and at least two checks. A clear prompt still does not guarantee a correct answer.