Module 3: Prompt Engineering
Page 1: Understanding Prompt Engineering
What Is Prompt Engineering?
AI models, like ChatGPT, generate responses based on the patterns and data they have learned during training. However, the quality of the response depends on the quality of the prompt you provide. If your input is too vague or unclear, the response will likely be generic or incomplete.
Why Does This Matter?
AI tools do not “think” like humans; they process language based on patterns.
The clearer and more specific your request, the better the response.
Learning how to structure prompts correctly saves time and improves accuracy in research, writing, and problem-solving.
Page 2: Good vs. Bad Prompts
The Importance of Clarity
To get accurate and detailed AI responses, you must refine your prompts. Adjusting your wording after an initial attempt can improve the AI’s answer significantly.
Examples of Vague vs. Clear Prompts
|
Vague Prompt |
Clear Prompt |
Outcome |
|
“Tell me about climate change.” |
“Explain the impact of climate change on sea levels and weather patterns with citations.” |
The first prompt is too broad, while the second directs AI to focus on specific aspects. |
|
“What are the pros and cons of renewable energy?” |
“List the advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy with references.” |
The second prompt tells the AI exactly what you need, ensuring a more accurate response. |
⏳ Tip: If the response isn’t what you expected, adjust your prompt by adding more details!
Page 3: Best Practices for Prompt Writing
To get reliable and high-quality AI-generated content, follow these key prompt engineering techniques:
Be Clear & Specific – Avoid vague requests; tell AI exactly what you need.
Provide Context – Mention any background details to refine the response.
Request a Format – Specify whether you want a summary, bullet points, or an essay.
Ask for Sources – If you need citations, explicitly request them in your prompt.
Example of a Well-Structured Prompt:
“Summarize the causes of the Great Depression in 200 words, including at least two economic factors, and provide academic references.”
Why This Works:
Summarization – Clearly asks for a summary.
Word Limit – Directs AI to keep the response concise.
Specific Focus – Mentions economic factors.
Sources – Requests citations to improve credibility.
Page 4: Activity & Reflection
Activity: Improving Prompts
Step 1: Start with a basic prompt (e.g., “Tell me about World War II.”).
Step 2: Rewrite the prompt to make it more specific (e.g., “Explain how World War II influenced the global economy, with examples and citations.”).
Step 3: Compare the AI responses. Which one is more detailed and useful?
Reflection Questions:
Did the more specific prompt lead to a better response?
How did adding context change the answer?
What elements made the second prompt more effective?
Final Thoughts:
Mastering prompt engineering will help you maximize AI’s potential while ensuring accuracy, depth, and relevance in research and writing.