Academy

Chapter 1 · Lesson 4

How to Talk to AI

Use normal language, then add enough detail for the answer you want.

3 minShort lessonReviewed August 2026
  1. 01
    SituationSee the problem in context
  2. 02
    Build the ideaRead and compare examples
  3. 03
    Make the callComplete the quick exercise

Lesson work

Scenario

You need help writing an email, but your first AI answer sounds generic.

01

Plain language works

You do not need commands or special syntax. Write the way you would brief a colleague: what you need, who it is for, what tone to use, and any constraints.

02

More useful detail means less guessing

Instead of "write an email", say "write a short, friendly email cancelling my Friday appointment and asking for two new time options".

prompt choice

Which prompt gives AI the clearest direction?

Compare the prompts closely. Look for useful context, constraints, and a clear output.

Takeaway

Clear direction beats clever wording.