Role. Task. Format.
The smallest framework that works. Three questions cover most everyday prompts.
Role
Whose Shoes
“You're a support agent at a business telecom provider.”
Sets the perspective, expertise and vocabulary. It's about viewpoint, not flattery.
Task
What To Do
“Explain how porting a landline number works.”
One clear verb and one clear job. If you need two verbs, you probably need two prompts.
Format
What Shape
“Four short steps in plain language.”
Length, structure and layout. The part most people forget and most readers notice.
Who, what, what shape. Most prompts need no more.