Prompting · Builder
Prompt builder¶
Use this template when a request needs more than a sentence. Fill in the parts that matter and remove the rest. You can write the same information in ordinary paragraphs if you prefer.
The template¶
Copy and fill in
Job: [the result you want]
Work from: [attach the material or name the files and sources]
Audience: [who will read or use the result]
Output: [format, length, and tone]
Keep unchanged: [facts, wording, files, or links to preserve]
Permissions:
- You may [read files, research, draft, or make named changes].
- Ask before [actions you want to review first].
Missing information: Ask if it would change the result.
Otherwise, state any small assumption you make.
Before finishing: [how to check the result]
If you only want a plan, add: “Explain the proposed changes and wait for my approval.” For a draft you can review on screen, you can usually let the AI start drafting.
Worked example¶
Example, filled in
Job: Draft a reply declining a vendor's renewal offer.
Work from: [paste the vendor's email]
Audience: The vendor's account manager.
Output: A short, polite email in our usual direct style.
Keep unchanged: We are declining this year's renewal but may
reconsider next year. Do not mention our budget.
Permissions: Draft the reply. Do not send it.
Before finishing: Check that you haven't invented a reason
for declining or promised a future purchase.
When you can't fill in the blanks¶
Start with the situation. The AI can help you decide what the deliverable should be.
Copy this instead
I need help with [situation]. Ask me one question at a time
until you can suggest a clear next step. Then explain what
you would produce and what information you would use.
For work in files or apps¶
Name the destination as well as the task. “Create the report in [folder] using [template]” is more useful than “make me a report.” Tell the agent whether it may edit the original, should save a new copy, or should show proposed changes first.