"Craft prompts that are clear and free of unnecessary details or ambiguity. Avoid overly complex or vague language. Consider use straightforward language to ensure the AI understands the request and break down large tasks into smaller, manageable components" (Perplexity, 2025).

Example: Explain the process of tariffs and their significance to U.S. economy.
VS Provide a detailed explanation of tariffs and their significance to U.S. economic growth.

➽ ChatGPT Example Prompts: U.S. Economy & Tariffs

"Structure prompts in a way that follows a logical flow or sequence, ensuring the AI can process and respond effectively. Organize information in a step-by-step format. Ensure the prompt has a clear purpose and avoids contradictory instructions" (Perplexity, 2025).

Example:  List the steps for writing a literature review, beginning with topic selection and ending with product and citations. VS Describe the steps for writing a literature review for a critical essay, starting with developing a main topic and ending with an analysis of citations.

➽ ChatGPT Example: Literature Reviews

"Be specific about the desired outcomes and expectations for the AI's response. Define parameters for the output (e.g., length, tone, style). Take time to include examples or templates to guide the AI's response" (Perplexity, 2025).

Example: What factors are attributed to the growth of ecommerce? VS Provide an overview of the growth of e-commerce, its impact on traditional retail, and the challenges of online shopping.

➽ ChatGPT Example: Prompt for ecommerce

"Adjust prompts based on previous responses to refine and improve the output. Evaluate initial responses critically and adapt follow-up prompts accordingly. Experiment with alternative phrasing or approaches if the output is unsatisfactory" (Perplexity, 2025).

Example: Discuss the impact of GenAI on the environment. VS Explain the environmental impact of artificial intelligence as it relates to energy consumption, water, and carbon emissions.

➽ ChatGPT Example: Environmental Impact of GenAI

"Assess whether the AI-generated content meets expectations and consider ways to improve future interactions. Compare the output to initial goals and identify gaps or areas for improvement. Reflect on whether the prompt could have been clearer or more specific" (Perplexity, 2025).

Consider: It's been my experience (Diane) that the quality of results is improved when asking the platform to share its sources and tell me if it does not know. In some cases, response options from GenAI may prompt users to determine the best path moving forward

Example: Provide an overview of ethical implications related to using generative AI as it relates to copyright, intellectual property, gathering user data, and equity. Share your sources. Tell me if you don’t know.

➽ ChatGPT Example: Ethical use of GenAI