Interacting with AI is different than interacting with a search engine like Google. A chatbot is trained to interact with you and give responses based on questions/prompt. While you can get results by asking a simple question, it is better to use a structured prompt to get the best results out of an AI tool. Prompt Engineering is the practice of creating and executing clear instructions to get the best results from an AI tool. Good prompt engineering will help users get more accurate and useful responses. Google is trained to list webpages that best fit your keyword search. Below are some frameworks for how to better interact with AI chatbots.
These are not meant to be strict instructions, but more of a guiding thought process to use critical thinking when using chatbots.
TRACI
Example:
Task: Explain the process of DNA replication.
Role: Act as a biology tutor.
Audience: For a college student studying for a midterm exam.
Create: Create a clear, step-by-step breakdown with simple analogies.
Intent: To help the student understand and remember the process more easily.
CLEAR
Concise
Needs work: Why should I go to college?
Better: What are the strengths and weaknesses to going to college?
Logical
Needs work: Can caffeine help me sleep like melatonin does?
Better: Compare the effects of caffeine and melatonin on sleep cycles.
Explicit
Is creatine good for you?
Explain the pros and cons of taking creatine before a workout.
Adaptive
Sometimes more information is needed, or you might have more questions.
Prompt 1: What is classical conditioning?
AI will respond with experiment, conditioned and unconditioned stimuli, and behavioral responses.
Prompt 2: How did Pavlov use classical conditioning to show how a neutral stimulus can trigger a learned response in dogs?
Reflective
A reflective prompt can be useful when looking for an answer from a specific population.
Needs work: Explain why online learning might be good for college students.
Better: Summarize the pros and cons of online learning for college students, especially those with limited internet access.