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Artificial Intelligence/Generative AI

Crafting prompts

When crafting prompts...

- Use clear, simple, and concise language.
- Specify the desired tone (style, context, point of view, format, length, etc.).
- Clarify or ask for clarification and repeat the process.

Evaluate response

  • Fact check
  • Assess relevance
  • Identify outdated information
  • Examine logical consistency
  • Ask for alternative explanations

Ask a librarian or faculty to help evaluate!

The CLEAR Framework

CLEAR Framework for Prompt Engineering is the brainchild of Leo S. Lo of the University of New Mexico. It is an easy way to think about how to craft prompts, and who doesn't love a good acronym? 

1. Concise: brevity and clarity in prompts

Do not add unnecessary language to your prompt. While it might be fun to type your prompt in the language you use when asking a friend, you will get better results if you keep your language "specific and directed toward the desired response."

Not this: I would like to find the best way to go to sleep faster every night instead of listening to podcasts.

This: best techniques to fall asleep faster

2. Logical: structured and coherent prompts

Be aware of the relationships between concepts, and make that logical progression part of your prompt.

Example:
List steps for selling used clothes online, starting with what clothes are best to sell and ending with the best techniques for getting buyers to purchase.

3. Expicit: clear output specifications

Be specific about what you need for the chat output, such as format and scope. 

Not this: Who is Rumplestiltskin? 

This: What is the country of origin of the Rumplestilskin fairy tale, and list the different versions. 

4. Adaptive: flexibility and customization in prompts

Ensure you are adaptive in your prompts and be willing to change the specificity, output, or style after receiving your initial response. 

5. Reflective: continuous evaluation and improvement of prompts 

Like the adaptive above, reflect on your responses and "identify areas of improvement....Use the information to tailor future prompts to generate content that better addresses specific challenges or contexts."