AI Prompt Patterns

ai-prompt-patterns.md

#	Pattern	Why It Matters	Template	Example Prompt
1	Lead with the ask	The model reads top-down; putting the goal first stops it wandering.	Do X... [context]...	"Summarise this PDF in 5 bullet points. The text is below:"
2	Repeat the key ask at the end	Long contexts sometimes truncate; an end-cap protects you.	[details]... REMEMBER: Do X.	"List pros & cons, keep it balanced. REMEMBER: 5 pros, 5 cons."
3	Specify output shape	Dictating format cuts revision loops.	Return as: 1) short list 2) table (CSV)...	"Give 3 holiday ideas. Format: destination, flight-time-hrs, avg cost."
4	Use clear delimiters	Backticks/headings/XML keep sections from blending.	TEXT TO ANALYSE text	"Rate the style of the text between the fences. text"
5	Induce step-by-step thinking	Planning first boosts multi-step accuracy.	Think step-by-step then answer.	"Solve this puzzle. Think step-by-step before giving the final move."
6	Ask it to plan its workflow	For big jobs, AI outlining tasks before doing them.	First draft a plan, wait, then execute.	"We’re writing an e-book. 1) Outline chapters. 2) Wait. When I say ‘go’, draft chapter 1."
7	Limit or widen knowledge sources	Controls hallucination.	Use only the info below. / Combine basic knowledge + this context.	"Using only the product sheet below, write FAQs."
8	Guide information retrieval	Helps AI pick the right docs before answering.	List which docs look relevant, then answer.	"30 sales memos attached. 1) Name the 5 most relevant. 2) Summarise their common points."
9	Show a style/example	Anchors tone, length, vocabulary.	Match the style of:	"Review this gadget in the style of the sample below: ‘Short, witty, 3 key facts...’"
10	Set correction handles	One-line fixes let you steer quickly.	IF length > 150 words, shorten.	"Describe blockchain to a child. IF your answer is >150 words, cut it in half."
11	Tell it when to stop or loop	Prevents half-finished lists or runaway essays.	Keep going until you list 20 ideas, then stop.	"Brainstorm webinar titles. Give exactly 12, then finish."
12	Request the hidden reasoning	Good for audits; otherwise omit to keep it short.	After the answer, include a brief reasoning section.	"Which of these stocks looks over-valued? Answer first; add a 2-sentence rationale below a divider."