How to Turn a Messy Idea into a Great AI Prompt 4-Step Recipe

Most “bad” AI answers start with a messy prompt. Here’s a quick, repeatable way to turn any rough idea into a clear, high-quality prompt plus a real example you can copy.

1) Intent

Say what you want the AI to do in one plain sentence with a strong verb.

“Write an email asking for time off.”

2) Context

Add only the facts that change the answer.

Manager’s name, date(s), tone (professional), reason (medical appt), small team.

3) Guidelines

Style, tone, length, structure.

Professional, concise, friendly; include subject and a clear ask; 120 - 160 words.

4) Format

Tell the AI how to present the result.

Return: subject, greeting, body, sign-off.

Intent: Write an email asking for time off.
Context: I work on a small team; manager is Jamie; I need Friday off for a medical appointment.
Guidelines: Professional, concise, friendly; include a subject and clear ask; 120–160 words.
Format: Subject, greeting, body, sign-off.

Real example - Before & After

Subject: Request for time off (Friday)

Hi Jamie,

I hope you’re well. I’d like to request Friday off for a medical appointment.
If anything needs covering, I can prep handover notes and be available for quick questions.

Does that work? Thanks for your understanding.

Best,
[Your Name]

Want this done for you? Our free tool follows similar steps and gives you an Optimized Prompt you can paste anywhere. Visit the homepage or learn more on Prompt Help.