How to Write Prompts That Always Hit the Mark

Clarity and conciseness are critical when writing prompts, especially for AI or creative tasks. Here’s how to ensure your prompts are clear, concise, and still powerful:

🧠 Step 1: Define the Goal

• What do you want? (Story, image, list, summary, idea, etc.)

• Is your intent obvious in the first sentence?

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✍️ Step 2: Use Clear, Simple Language

• Did you avoid vague terms like “cool,” “nice,” or “good”?

• Are you using precise words for objects, actions, or emotions?

• Did you avoid jargon or complex phrases?

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🎯 Step 3: Focus on One Main Idea

• Is the prompt asking for one clear task?

• If there’s more than one goal, did you break it into parts?

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📏 Step 4: Set Boundaries

• Did you include limits? (Word count, format, length, style?)

• Did you specify tone or mood? (Funny, formal, eerie, casual, etc.)

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🎨 Step 5: Add Specific Details

• Who or what is the subject?

• Where is it happening? (Setting or scene?)

• What makes it unique? (Style, emotion, twist?)

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🧩 Step 6: Avoid Ambiguity

• Can your prompt be interpreted in more than one way?

• Did you reword or clarify confusing phrases?

• Is everything you refer to clearly defined?

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🗣️ Step 7: Format It Like a Command

• Did you use active voice and action verbs?
  (e.g., “Describe…”, “Generate…”, “Write…”)

• Is the task framed as a direct request?

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✅ Bonus Tips:

• Use bullet points or brackets for multi-step prompts

• Include sample outputs when needed

• Read it aloud—does it make sense instantly?

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🖨️ Download & Print:

Copy and paste this checklist into a document or Notepad, then print it for your desk, journal, or whiteboard.