Using AI to improve your prompting

Explanation

The comparison below between the “before” and “after” prompts shows how a small change in wording can make a big difference to the quality of the AI’s response. In the first prompt, the AI gives a useful outline of the binomial theorem’s structure. In the improved prompt, adding details such as the student’s study level, a request for step-by-step explanation, and a worked example allows the AI to provide a much richer and more tailored answer. This highlights the importance of being specific about context and learning needs: the clearer and more directed the prompt, the more helpful and actionable the response will be.

Example Prompt

“Hello! I’d like your help in improving the way I write prompts. Here’s the last prompt I used with you:

"Hello! I am a student studying Maths and I'm struggling to understand binomial theorem. Could you outline the main steps so that I can understand the structure first? Thank you!"

Could you tell me:

• What was clear and effective about the prompt?
• What could be added or changed to make it clearer and more effective?
• What an improved version of my original prompt might look like that would help you give a better response?

AI Response

Great job — you’ve already written a really strong prompt! Let’s look at it step by step.

1. What was clear and helpful about it?

• You introduced yourself and your subject (Maths), which gives context.
• You clearly stated the topic you need help with (binomial theorem).
• You specified your goal: understanding the structure of the theorem before diving into detail.
• You were polite and concise — always helpful!

2. What could be added or changed to make it even more effective?

• You could tell me your level (e.g., first-year undergraduate, A-level, etc.) so I can adjust explanations to the right depth.
• You might mention whether you’d like me to use an example problem alongside the explanation.
• If you learn best in a certain way (e.g., step-by-step outline, visual analogy, practice questions), including that would let me tailor the response even more.

3. Improved Version of Your Prompt

“Hello! I am a first-year undergraduate studying Maths, and I’m struggling to understand the binomial theorem. Could you outline the main steps in a clear, step-by-step way, and then give me a simple worked example so I can see how the structure applies in practice? Thank you!”

Why this version works better

• Adds level of study → I know how advanced to go.
• Requests a step-by-step explanation → ensures clarity.
• Asks for a worked example → connects theory to practice.