What’s a Prompt? – Talking to AI Like a Friend Introduction

Introduction

A prompt is simply how you “talk” to AI. Think of it as giving directions to a very smart assistant — the clearer you are, the better the result. This lesson helps you understand what a prompt is and how to make AI respond like a helpful study partner.

Description

Prompts are not about fancy words — they’re about clarity, purpose, and structure. Just like asking your teacher a question, you guide the AI by telling it what you need and how you want the answer. Once you master this, you’ll be able to make AI summarize lessons, explain topics, and help you study faster.

Simple Prompt Example

Explain the water cycle in simple words.

RTF (Role – Task – Format) Prompt Example

Role: You are my science teacher.

Task: Explain the water cycle.

Format: Write the answer in 3 short paragraphs with clear examples.

CARE (Context – Audience – Requirement – Example) Prompt Example

Context: I’m a student learning natural science in middle school.

Audience: Students who are just starting to learn environmental topics.

Requirement: Explain the water cycle clearly using real-life examples.

Example: Use simple steps like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

COSTAR (Context – Objective – Style – Tone – Audience – Response) Prompt Example

Context: Environmental science lesson.

Objective: Understand how water moves through the cycle.

Style: Educational and simple.

Tone: Friendly and clear.

Audience: Students aged 13–15.

Response: Give a short explanation and a fun example.

Chain of Thought Prompt Example

Let’s think step-by-step:

What happens to water when it heats up?

Where does it go next?

How does it come back as rain?

Explain the water cycle step by step in your own words.