Make it think (and ask) — Prompt Craft
Don't ask for the answer first
For anything complex, the best first reply isn't the answer — it's a plan, a list of questions, or reasoning. That gives you a checkpoint to steer before the AI commits to 1,000 words in the wrong direction.
Three magic openers:
• "Before you start, ask me any questions you need."
• "First outline your approach; wait for my OK."
• "Think it through step by step, then give your answer."
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Don't ask for the answer first
For anything complex, the best first reply isn't the answer — it's a plan, a list of questions, or reasoning. That gives you a checkpoint to steer before the AI commits to 1,000 words in the wrong direction.
Three magic openers:
• "Before you start, ask me any questions you need."
• "First outline your approach; wait for my OK."
• "Think it through step by step, then give your answer."
Interview-first prompting
Weak: Make me a workout plan.
Strong: I want a workout plan I'll actually stick to. Before writing it, ask me up to 6 questions about my schedule, equipment, injuries and goals. Then build the plan.
Why: Letting the AI ask questions pulls out context you'd never think to include.
Reasoning models do the thinking for you
With a thinking/reasoning mode on, you don't need to write "step by step" — the model already reasons privately. What still helps: stating the goal and the criteria ("optimize for cost, then speed") and asking it to show the key trade-offs in its answer.
Try it on a real decision
I'm deciding whether to [your decision]. Before advising me, ask me the 5 questions that matter most. Then give me a recommendation with the top 3 trade-offs and what would change your mind.
Part of ✍️ Prompt Craft in the free AI Bootcamp.