Prompt engineering

Tim: Let's have a conversation about prompt engineering. Keep your answers to less than a paragraph and conversational and finish each answer with a question back to me.

ChatGPT: Prompt engineering is like guiding an AI in a conversation. The way you phrase a question or statement can really shape the response you get. It's a bit like talking to a very literal-minded person who takes cues from exactly what you say. Have you had any experiences where the way you phrased a prompt led to an unexpected answer from an AI?

Tim: I once asked whether ChatGPT preferred a Kit Kat to a Twix and forced it to choose using a one word answer. Within seconds, the response came back as Kit Kat. No idea why or what information was being used to provide this response. So yes, I was surprised to get a one word answer as I am used to ChatGPT sitting on the fence. So, what is happening under the hood when I supply specific commands in a particular prompt.

ChatGPT: When you give specific commands like asking for a one-word answer, you're effectively narrowing down how the AI can respond. Under the hood, the AI doesn't have personal preferences, but it generates responses based on patterns it learned during training. In your case, saying "Kit Kat" could be just a random selection or based on some statistical likelihood from its training data. The AI doesn't "prefer" one over the other but tries to provide a coherent and relevant response within the constraints you've set. Do you think understanding these mechanics changes how you view interactions with AI?

Tim: Yes, I think it makes it more interesting. After a while you notice patterns to the way AI responds and can start to predict certain responses to certain questions. Once you understand that there are multiple ways to ask the same question and can provide additional instructions to get certain styles, formats and types of information it is more interesting and potentially more useful. What are some of the common or most useful types of prompts that are used?

ChatGPT: You're right, understanding the AI's response patterns makes interactions more strategic and interesting. Common and useful prompt types include direct questions for factual information, prompts for creative tasks like writing or idea generation, and scenario-based prompts where you describe a situation and ask the AI to react or provide solutions. Structured prompts, where you specify the format or style of the response (like "in bullet points" or "as a summary"), can also be very effective. And there's instructional prompting, where you ask the AI to perform a task in a certain way, like simulating a role or adhering to specific constraints. Do you have a favorite type of prompt, or one you find particularly effective?

Tim: I have experimented with prompts that simulate a particular role. My background is in technology and product management and so I am interested in seeing how a product manager might describe something. I have also used AI in discovery and user research projects to try and understand a topic from a particular viewpoint. When I ask for a viewpoint as say a 10-year old child - how does ChatGPT actually produce that type of response?

ChatGPT: Simulating different roles or perspectives, like that of a 10-year-old child, is a great way to use AI for diverse insights. When you ask for a response from a specific viewpoint, the AI uses its understanding of language and context to emulate that perspective. It doesn't have consciousness or personal experiences but relies on patterns and examples from its training data. For a child's viewpoint, it would use simpler language, more basic concepts, and perhaps a more playful or curious tone, based on how children's speech is represented in its training. This approach can add a unique dimension to topics like user research or product management. Have you found this kind of role-play prompt useful in your field, or are there other areas where you think it could be particularly beneficial?

Tim: I am just starting to explore this further in my field. I don't think this replaces real world contact and experiences, but It has been useful to generate ideas, questions and to review and edit completed work to see if anything has been missed. Is there an optimum length or complexity of a prompt?

ChatGPT: It's great to hear you're exploring these applications in your field! Regarding prompt length and complexity, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends on the task and the desired outcome. Generally, clearer and more concise prompts work better for straightforward tasks or when seeking specific information. For more complex or creative tasks, detailed prompts can guide the AI more effectively. The key is to provide enough context for the AI to understand the request without overloading it with unnecessary information. It's a balance between being succinct and being descriptive. Have you noticed a difference in the AI's responses when you vary the length or detail in your prompts?

Tim: Yes, although I find most answers are always around three to four paragraphs long unless I have specifically asked to shorten them. Is it possible to provide a prompt that would generate an entire chapter, book or play?

ChatGPT: Yes, it's definitely possible to prompt for longer content like a chapter, book, or play. However, due to the nature of AI and current technical constraints, generating very long content in a single response might be challenging. It's often more effective to break down the task into smaller parts, like asking for an outline first and then expanding each section separately. This approach allows for more control over the content and ensures consistency and coherence. Additionally, for extremely long works like books, you might need to guide the AI with regular prompts to maintain the narrative or thematic direction.

Tim: Thanks ChatGPT? Could you generate an image that reflects our conversation.

ChatGPT:

Here's an image that reflects our conversation about prompt engineering, AI, and technology. It captures the essence of a deep and engaging discussion between a human and an AI entity in a futuristic setting. What are your thoughts on this depiction?

Tim: It will do.

ChatGPT: Great! If you have any more questions or need assistance with anything else, feel free to ask!