What is an instruction or prompt?

Prompts are instructions given to language models to perform specific tasks, such as answering questions, summarizing texts, or generating content. Just as a chef needs a clear recipe to bake the perfect cake, AI requires our instructions to be precise and thorough to deliver optimal results. A well-crafted prompt not only specifies clearly what we want the AI to do but also provides the essential context and relevant details to avoid confusion.

Key rules for creating effective prompts

1. Clearly define the objective

Before writing the prompt, ask yourself:

• What is the purpose of this instruction?
• What do I expect the AI to accomplish by the end?

The first step to writing an effective prompt is clearly defining its objective: What result do you expect from the AI? Clarifying the purpose of the task will help avoid misunderstandings and direct the response appropriately. Additionally, for complex tasks, breaking down the instruction into simple, sequential steps allows the AI to process the information gradually, ensuring an organized and precise output.

Example: “I want the AI to help me generate an automated reply for frequent inquiries about our business hours.”

2.Break the request down into clear steps

Break down the request into simple, organized tasks. If needed, divide complex tasks into a logical sequence.

Example:

1. Address the customer by name.
2. Mention the updated business hours.
3. Offer additional information if requested by the customer.

3. Provide sufficient relevant context

Adding relevant context to the prompt is crucial because the AI cannot guess information you assume is obvious. Provide all important facts and details, such as company information, formatting rules, target audience, and desired tone.

Example: "Our store has different operating hours on weekends. Clearly indicate this in your response."

4. Avoid ambiguity and contradictions

A good prompt avoids ambiguity and contradictions: always confirm your instructions are consistent and clear to prevent incomplete or inaccurate responses.

Not recommended:

"Reply briefly, but also explain everything in detail."

Recommended:

"Provide an answer of up to three lines, concisely explaining the changes to the schedule."

5. Include examples for complex scenarios

In complex scenarios, providing examples of correct and incorrect responses can make all the difference. These examples guide the AI toward your expectations and help reduce mistakes or inaccurate interpretations.

Correct example:

“Our business hours are Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm. Saturdays, from 10 am to 4 pm.”

Incorrect example:

“We are open every day.”

6. Refine the prompt

Remember that prompt design is also an iterative process: test, adjust, and refine the prompt based on the results you receive, until the AI yields exactly the type of response you are looking for.

Tip:

Try the same instruction multiple times, varying details each time, to identify which adjustments generate better responses.

Summary of best practices

Just as in developing an effective technological solution, well-designed prompts for conversational agents require essential components and clear instructions. These elements work together to guide AI models, producing accurate and useful results.

Below are the key components you should include when creating a prompt for a conversational agent.

After identifying the key components, it's crucial to provide the conversational agent with the specific instructions it must follow.

Mastering effective prompt writing is essential for enabling AI-driven conversational agents to deliver precise, relevant, and goal-aligned responses for your company. By applying these best practices and clearly structuring instructions, you'll be able to fully harness the potential of AI, ensuring quality interactions for both your team and your customers.