Step 7: Advanced Techniques for Adding Instructions

“Welcome to Step 7! By now, you’ve learned how to write prompts for step-by-step outputs. In this step, we’ll focus on adding advanced instructions to your prompts to guide the AI with precision. Whether you’re asking for a specific tone, formatting style, or level of detail, including clear instructions ensures the AI consistently delivers exactly what you need. By the end of this step, you’ll be able to craft prompts that fine-tune the AI’s behavior, saving you time and effort.”

Why Detailed Instructions Matter

“AI works best when it knows exactly what you want. Vague prompts lead to vague responses, but detailed instructions allow the AI to tailor its output to your exact needs. For trades professionals, this means generating outputs that are not only accurate but also formatted and phrased for your specific audience.”

Key Techniques for Adding Instructions

1. Specify the Audience or Purpose

“Clearly state who the output is for or how it will be used.”

• Example:
  Prompt: ‘Explain how to fix a leaking pipe.’

  • Basic Output: Generic advice.

  • Improved Prompt: ‘You are a plumber. Write a beginner-friendly guide for fixing a leaking pipe, using simple language for homeowners.’

  • Output: Detailed yet easy-to-understand steps for non-professionals.

2. Define the Output Style

“Specify how the response should look: bullet points, numbered lists, or paragraphs.”

• Example:
  Prompt: ‘List common tools for electrical repairs.’

  • Basic Output: Unstructured text.

  • Improved Prompt: ‘Write the response as a table with two columns: Tool Name and Purpose.’

  Output:

  Tool Name	Purpose
  Voltage Tester	Check electrical current
  Wire Strippers	Remove insulation from wires

3. Control the Tone and Language

“Match the tone to the audience—formal for clients, casual for DIYers, or technical for professionals.”

• Example:
  Prompt: ‘Write about HVAC maintenance.’

  • Basic Output: General text.

  • Improved Prompt: ‘Write in a conversational tone, like you’re giving advice to a first-time homeowner.’

  Output:

  • “Keeping your HVAC system in good shape is easier than you think! Start by changing the air filter every 3 months.”

4. Add Constraints for Precision

“Limit the response length or focus to keep it relevant and concise.”

• Example:
  Prompt: ‘Explain roof inspection tips.’

  • Basic Output: Long and detailed.

  • Improved Prompt: ‘Provide 5 quick tips for inspecting a roof, each under 20 words.’

  Output:

  1. Check for missing shingles.

  2. Look for water stains in the attic.

  3. Inspect gutters for debris.

5. Request Conditional Responses

“Include conditions to make the output more flexible and tailored.”

• Example:
  Prompt: ‘Explain how to fix HVAC issues.’

  • Improved Prompt: ‘Provide solutions for common HVAC problems. If the issue is a dirty filter, include cleaning tips. If it’s low refrigerant, suggest contacting a professional.’

Examples of Advanced Instruction Prompts

Scenario 1: Formatting a Proposal

Prompt:
‘You are a contractor. Write a professional proposal for a kitchen renovation. Include an introduction, scope of work, timeline, and cost breakdown.’

Output:

• Introduction: Thank you for considering our services for your kitchen renovation.

• Scope of Work: This project includes replacing cabinetry, installing a new countertop, and upgrading appliances.

• Timeline: Estimated completion in 4 weeks.

• Cost Breakdown: $15,000 (materials: $10,000; labor: $5,000).

Scenario 2: Creating a Safety Checklist

Prompt:
‘You are a site manager. Write a safety checklist for workers on a roofing job, focusing on fall protection and tool handling.’

Output:

1. Inspect harnesses and secure them properly.

2. Ensure ladders are stable and placed on even ground.

3. Use tool belts to prevent dropping equipment.

Practice Exercise: Adding Instructions

Scenario: You need a troubleshooting guide for a dishwasher that won’t drain.

1. Write a basic prompt:

   • ‘How do I troubleshoot a dishwasher?’

2. Add detailed instructions:

   • ‘You are an appliance technician. Write a troubleshooting guide for a dishwasher that won’t drain. Use a step-by-step format, include tools needed, and provide safety precautions.’

3. Test and refine the prompt as needed.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

Mistake 1: Overcomplicating the Instructions

• Problem: The AI response is too long or confusing.

• Fix: Simplify the prompt by focusing on one main goal.

Mistake 2: Forgetting Key Details

• Problem: Important steps or information are missing.

• Fix: Add constraints or specify the required details.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the Audience

• Problem: The tone doesn’t match the audience.

• Fix: Specify who the response is for and adjust the tone accordingly.

Future-Proofing Instruction Techniques

“As AI tools improve, you’ll have even more options to guide outputs, like adding voice commands or integrating visuals. Start practicing advanced instructions now to build the skills you’ll need for these future tools. For example, you might soon say: ‘Generate a how-to video for repairing a drywall crack.’”

Your Progress Tracker

“🎉 Congratulations on completing Step 7! Here’s what you’ve learned:

• How to add advanced instructions to your prompts for better outputs.

• Techniques to control tone, format, and level of detail.

• How to guide AI responses with constraints and conditional tasks.”

Next Steps

“In Step 8, we’ll explore how to identify and use AI’s strengths and weaknesses. This will help you maximize the tool’s capabilities while avoiding common pitfalls.”

CTA: Continue to Step 8: Identifying and Using AI’s Strengths and Weaknesses.