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Middlesex Campus Library

Middlesex ChatGPT and Generative AI-A Student's Guide

This guide provides important information about Generative AI to students.

Tips for Effective Prompts

“Prompt engineering” refers to putting careful, deliberate thought into how you interact with a GenAI tool. Here are some tips and strategies for effective prompt engineering:

  • Use clear and concise language. For example, provide a list of synonyms of cyberbullying.
  • Set parameters. For example, list five effective team-building activities.
  • Define a target audience. For example, draft a letter about creating safe online environment to a fifth grader.
  • Give examples. For example, list three digital marketing strategies for food and drink company such as Starbucks.
  • Ask what to do instead of what NOT to do. For example.  Avoid: “Don’t give examples before the year 2020.”  Use Instead: “Provide examples after the year 2020.”

If the initial responses do not meet your expectations, refine your prompt based on the AI tool’s response.