All About AI Prompts

For this page, I experimented with prompt generation to see how different styles of prompts change the results. I wanted to learn how to be specific and intentional in what I ask an AI.

Prompt Example 1: Too Vague

Prompt: “Tell me about technology.”

Result: The AI provided a lengthy, generic response that listed every type of technology. It wasn’t useful because it didn’t connect to my coursework.

Prompt Example 2: Clear and Targeted

Prompt: “Explain the main parts of a computer (CPU, RAM, storage) as if you’re writing for a 10th-grader. Use short sentences and examples.”

Result (excerpt):

The CPU is like the “brain” of the computer. It makes decisions and solves problems. RAM is like a “scratchpad” where the computer stores information it’s currently working on. Storage is the “filing cabinet” where files live even when the power is off.

This was much clearer and directly connected to what I’m learning in Unit 1.

Prompt Example 3: Advanced Prompt

Prompt: “Act as a hiring manager for an entry-level IT support role. I am a college student with limited work experience. Ask me three realistic interview questions, then give me feedback on how I could improve my answers.”

Result (excerpt):

Question 1: Can you describe a time when you helped someone solve a technical problem, even if it was informal or outside of work?

My Response: Question 1 answer: One time I had to help my mom reconnect her printer to her iPad. I had to explore the settings and Google some solutions. 

Feedback: 

Thanks for your answer! Here's some feedback to help you improve it for a real interview:

✅ What You Did Well:

Real-life example: You gave a relatable and honest scenario, which shows initiative and a willingness to help others.

Problem-solving: You mentioned exploring settings and using Google, which demonstrates resourcefulness.

🔧 How to Improve:

To make your answer stronger and more professional, try using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Here's how you could revise your answer:

“My mom was having trouble reconnecting her printer to her iPad, which she needed to print some important documents. I took the initiative to help her by first checking the printer’s Wi-Fi settings and then researching online for compatibility and setup instructions. After following a few troubleshooting steps I found, I was able to reconnect the devices successfully. She was really relieved, and I felt good knowing I could solve the issue independently.”

This version:

Adds context and stakes.

Shows your thought process clearly.

Ends with a positive result.

This example showed me that “act as” can create a role-play situation where AI provides me with practice and coaching that I wouldn’t get on my own.

What I Learned

Vague prompts = vague answers.

Adding context, audience, and style enhances the output's strength.

“Act as” prompts let me simulate real-life situations (like interviews).

I can use AI to practice and improve skills without relying on it to do the work for me.