Artificial Intelligence
Prompt
Plain English
The instruction you give AI.
Definition
A prompt is the input or instruction given to an AI glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term to guide its output or glossaryResponseA response is the data or result returned by a server after receiving a request.Open glossary term.
In practice
Used to define what the AI should do, including tone, structure, glossaryConstraintsConstraints are limitations or restrictions that impact how a product or solution can be designed or built.Open glossary term, and expected output format.
In context
It is the glossaryInterfaceAn interface is the point of interaction between a user and a system, where inputs are made and outputs are received. It can be visual, physical, or conversational.Open glossary term, whether or not anyone treats it as one. An empty text box asks the user to guess what the glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term can do, which is a design decision by default.
The reality
Small changes in wording can significantly impact glossaryOutput QualityOutput quality is how accurate, useful, and relevant a produced result is for the task it was meant to serve. It covers more than correctness, taking in tone, format, and whether the result can actually be acted on.Open glossary term, making prompts difficult to standardise.
Compared with
Prompt vs Query
A query asks a glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term to find something that exists. A prompt asks it to produce something. A query can be judged right or wrong; a prompt is judged on whether the output is useful.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is a prompt in AI?
It is the instruction or input given to an AI to generate a glossaryResponseA response is the data or result returned by a server after receiving a request.Open glossary term.
Why are prompts important?
They directly influence the quality and relevance of glossaryAI OutputAI output refers to any result generated by an AI system, including text, images, predictions, or decisions.Open glossary term.
What makes a good prompt?
glossaryClarityClarity is how easily users can understand what is happening and what they need to do.Open glossary term, specificity, and clear glossaryConstraintsConstraints are limitations or restrictions that impact how a product or solution can be designed or built.Open glossary term.
Can prompts affect AI accuracy?
Yes, poorly written prompts can glossaryLeadA lead is a potential customer who has shown interest in a product or service, typically by providing contact information or engaging with content.Open glossary term to weak or incorrect outputs.
Related Services
Related Guides
Related Terms
