15  Prompt Formulas

The following are some examples of prompt formulas. A quick search online will produce many, many more examples, but the point is always the same - a high-level structure that helps you think through key components when writing a prompt

15.1 Role + Task + Context + Output Format

  • Role: Define the AI’s perspective or expertise
  • Task: Specify what you want it to do
  • Context: Provide any necessary background or details
  • Output Format: Describe how you want the answer presented

Example structure: “You are a [role]. [Task]. Context: [details]. Output as [format].”

15.2 ACT Formula (Action, Context, Tone)

  • Action: Describe the task or behavior you want
  • Context: Explain the situation or purpose
  • Tone: Indicate the desired communication style or mood

Example structure: “Please [action] in the context of [context], using a [tone/style] tone.”

15.3 C-A-R-E Framework

  • Context: Describe the situation or background
  • Action: Specify what the model should do
  • Result: Define the intended outcome or goal
  • Explanation: Clarify why or how the result should be achieved

Example structure: “Context: [situation]. Action: [what to do]. Result: [desired output]. Explanation: [why or how].”

15.4 CRISPE Formula

  • Capacity and Role: Define the AI’s expertise or viewpoint
  • Insight: Provide background or relevant context
  • Statement: Specify the exact task or request
  • Personality: Set the tone or style
  • Experiment: Suggest output formats or variations

Example structure: “Capacity/Role: [expertise]. Context: [insight]. Task: [statement]. Tone: [personality]. Try presenting it as [experiment].”

15.5 RISEN Formula

  • Role: Define the AI’s expertise
  • Instructions: Provide clear, specific directions
  • Steps: Outline the process or sequence of actions
  • End Goal: Describe the final desired outcome
  • Narrowing: Add any constraints or boundaries

Example structure: “Role: [expert]. Do this: [instructions]. Process: [steps]. Goal: [outcome]. Constraints: [specifics].”

15.6 RACE Formula

  • Role: Identify the perspective or expertise to adopt
  • Action: Specify the task or objective
  • Context: Include relevant background or scenario details
  • Example: Provide one or more examples to illustrate the desired output

Example structure: “As a [role], [action]. Context: [background]. For example: [sample].”