Prompting Skills playbook/Module 3 · Core techniques

Day 30 / 100 · Core techniques · Say what to do, not what not to do

Say what to do.

A ‘don't’ still puts the unwanted idea in the prompt. Say what you want instead. Point the model at what you want instead.

Don't Say

Say

“Don't use jargon.”

“Use words a new customer would know.”

“Don't make it long.”

“Keep it to three short paragraphs.”

“Don't use bullet points.”

“Write in flowing paragraphs.”

“Don't talk about competitors.”

“Focus only on our own products.”

Source: Anthropic ↗

Point it where to go. Save “never” for red lines.