10 Prompt Frameworks That Improve ChatGPT Responses

Accurate, consistent results from large language models often depend on the shape of the prompt. The ten frameworks below have proved effective across diverse tasks and can be combined as needed.

1. Role-Based Prompting

Template

You are an accomplished [expert role]. The task is to [goal].

Purpose

Assigns vocabulary, tone, and depth by anchoring the model in a clearly defined persona.

2. Few-Shot Prototyping

Template

Input ➜ Output; Input ➜ Output; Input ➜ ?

Purpose

Demonstrates the desired pattern through examples, enabling the model to generalize format and tone.

3. Chain-of-Thought (“Think step-by-step”)

Template

Think step-by-step before answering.

Purpose

Encourages explicit reasoning, which improves accuracy on multi-stage or logical problems.

4. Checklist / Numbered Instructions

Template

Follow these rules: 1)… 2)… 3)… Then provide the answer.

Purpose

Reduces omitted requirements by giving the model a clear set of tasks.

5. Format-Locked Output

Template

Return exactly this JSON schema: { field1:…, field2:…, field3:[…] }.

Purpose

Produces structured data suitable for immediate use in scripts, APIs, or spreadsheets.

6. Delimited Context

Template

<<< source material >>>

Purpose

Prevents confusion between instructions and pasted text, which is essential for long quotations or code blocks.

7. Persona + Style Guide

Template

Write as [persona] in a [tone], avoiding [taboo terms].

Purpose

Aligns content with brand voice while preserving domain expertise.

8. Critic-Then-Improve (Reflexive Prompt)

Template

First critique the text, then rewrite it. Label each part “Critique:” and “Improved version:”.

Purpose

Implements a two-pass workflow that raises overall quality through self-review.

9. Constraint-Driven Creativity

Template

Produce [content] under [strict limits] (word count, rhyme scheme, emoji only, etc.).

Purpose

Focuses the model and often yields inventive results by imposing boundaries.

10. Error-Correction / Debugging Coach

Template

Here is the code or error. Suggest the most likely cause, then propose a fix.

Purpose

Frames the task as diagnosis followed by remedy, leading to targeted, practical assistance.

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Practical Combination Strategy

1. Begin with Role-Based Prompting (#1) to establish expertise.

2. Add Few-Shot Examples (#2) when precise structure matters.

3. Layer Chain-of-Thought (#3) or Checklists (#4) for complex, multi-step tasks.

4. Include Format-Locked Output (#5) and Delimited Context (#6) whenever the response will flow into another system.

5. Apply Persona/Style (#7), Critic-Then-Improve (#8), or Constraints (#9) to match brand requirements, iterate, or stimulate creativity.

6. Use Debugging Coach (#10) for troubleshooting code or data pipelines.