Prompt Templates You Can Copy
Good prompts share the same bones: a clear task, the context the AI cannot guess, an example of what good looks like, and the format you want back. These templates bake that in.
Copy a template, swap the parts in square brackets for your own details, and paste it into any chat assistant. For the why behind each step, see our guide to writing good prompts.
Write prompts like a clear brief: Simon Hattinga Verschure webmarbles, CC0
Template 1: Summarize anything
Turn a long article, report or meeting transcript into something you can read in a minute.
- Set the role and goal Start with: You are helping me understand [type of document] quickly.
- Add context Say who it is for: I am a [your role] and I need to [decision or task].
- Ask for a format Ask for: five bullet points, one line on what is uncertain, and any numbers quoted exactly.
- Paste the text last Paste the document below a clear marker such as Document: so the AI knows where it starts.
Tip: Ask the AI to quote the exact sentence behind each bullet. It makes made-up claims much easier to spot.
Template 2: Write a clear email
Draft a polite, short email in your own voice.
- Describe the situation Write: I need to email [person and relationship] about [topic]. The goal is [outcome].
- Set the tone Add: Keep it [friendly, firm, formal], under [number] words, no jargon.
- Give an example Paste one short email you wrote before and say: Match this style.
- Ask for options Ask for two versions with different subject lines so you can pick.
Tip: Always read the draft before sending and fix any names, dates or promises yourself.
Template 3: Learn a topic fast
Use the AI as a patient tutor that checks your understanding.
- State your level Write: Explain [topic] to someone who knows [what you already know] but not [what you do not].
- Ask for structure Ask for: a one-paragraph overview, three key ideas, and one everyday analogy.
- Make it check you Add: Then ask me three questions, one at a time, and correct my answers.
- Ask for sources Finish with: List reputable sources I can read to confirm this.
Tip: Open the sources it suggests. AI can invent references, so a link you have not checked is not a source.
Template 4: Plan a project step by step
Break a goal into a realistic plan, then improve it.
- Describe the goal and limits Write: I want to [goal] by [date]. I have [hours per week] and a budget of [amount].
- Ask it to think first Add: Before you answer, list the main risks and questions you would want answered.
- Ask for a table Request a table with columns: step, time needed, depends on, done when.
- Chain a second prompt In a follow-up message, ask: What is the weakest part of this plan, and how would you fix it?
Tip: Splitting a big job into two or three linked prompts usually works better than one giant prompt.
Do not paste passwords, financial account numbers, health records or other private data into AI tools. Check every fact before you rely on it.
Facts on this page were checked against these sources (updated Oct 1, 2026). Spot an error? Email hello@fireempireshop.com.
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