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Gemini Thinks: The Art of Writing Well-Defined Prompts

Phong Yew Tong

Prompt

How do I write a well-defined prompt?
– What keywords can be used to define the prompt?
– Tips to enhance the prompt quality
– Define a quality structure for a prompt
– Show 3 Examples

Response

Absolutely! Here’s a breakdown of writing well-defined prompts, focusing on keywords, quality, structure, and examples:

1. Keywords to Define Your Prompt

  • Purpose Keywords: Clearly state what the response should achieve:
    • Explain, Describe, Imagine, Create, Analyze, Compare, Design, Persuade
  • Topic Keywords: Narrow the focus within the purpose.
    • Space exploration, Medieval knights, Friendship, Artificial intelligence
  • Constraint Keywords: Limit/focus how the response is formatted.
    • Poem, Short story, Instructions, Recipe, Blueprint, Advertisement

2. Tips for Enhancing Prompt Quality

  • Specificity: Avoid vague terms like “things” or “stuff.” Be precise about the subject matter.
  • Unexpected Juxtapositions: Combine contrasting ideas to spark creativity (e.g., “shy superhero,” “clockwork forest”).
  • Engage the Senses: Incorporate sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste for vividness.
  • Emotional Dimension: Include words that evoke feelings for a deeper response.

3. Structure of a Well-Defined Prompt

While there’s flexibility, a good structure often follows:

  • Action Hook: Start with a purpose keyword or an intriguing scenario.
  • Core Question or Task: Focus on what the response should address.
  • Guidance: Provide relevant topic keywords or context.
  • Optional Constraints: Specify format, length, or specific elements to include.

Examples:

Example 1: Descriptive Writing

  • Action Hook: Imagine…
  • Core Question: …you discover a hidden door in your backyard. Describe what you see, hear, and smell when you open it.
  • Guidance: Keywords – overgrown vines, ancient stone, damp earth
  • Constraints: Limit to 150 words.

Example 2: Problem-Solving

  • Action Hook: Design…
  • Core Task: … a way to protect a garden from hungry rabbits without using fences.
  • Guidance: Keywords – natural materials, humane, effective.
  • Constraints: Include a simple sketch.

Example 3: Reflective Writing

  • Action Hook: Describe…
  • Core Question: … a time when you felt brave. What made the situation challenging, and how did your bravery help?
  • Guidance: Keywords – fear, hesitation, determination
  • Constraints: Focus on personal experience.

Remember:

  • Audience: Tailor your prompts to their knowledge and interest levels.
  • Open-endedness: Don’t be overly prescriptive. Leave room for unique interpretations.
  • Iteration: Practice makes perfect! Adapt and improve your prompts over time.

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