The 12 Prompts You'll Use Most

Fill in the [brackets] and go.

Your First Prompt

Understand

Explain'Explain [concept] like I'm a complete beginner. Simple analogy plus 3 bullets.'

Overview'Beginner-friendly overview of [topic]: pros, cons, and 3 things people get wrong.'

Compare'Compare [A] and [B] in a table: cost, ease of use, best use case.'

Rewrite'Rewrite this in a [tone] tone, under [X] words: [paste]'

Summarise'Summarise in 5 bullets, each under 20 words: [paste]'

Follow up'Polite follow-up to [person] about [topic]. We last spoke [when]. Under 80 words.'

Defuse'Turn this angry draft into something I won't regret sending, keeping my point: [paste]'

Schedule'I have [X hours] and these tasks: [list]. Realistic schedule with buffer time.'

Triage'Here's everything on my plate: [list]. Delegate, defer, delete, or do.'

Budget'I earn [£X], I spend [list]. Find the leaks and propose a budget I'll keep.'

Interview me'Before you answer, ask me any questions you need.'

Critique it'Now critique your answer as a sceptical [expert] would, then rewrite it.'