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Learn how to ask the AI for what you want in a way that gets you the best results. Think of it like giving clear instructions to a helpful assistant.

How AI Understands You

Different AI models are good at different things. The key is to be clear about what you want, just like explaining something to a friend.

Tell the AI What Tools to Use

Be Specific About Your Tools

The AI works better when you tell it exactly what tools and technologies you want to use. It’s like telling a chef what ingredients to cook with. Good example:
Build an online store dashboard with:
- React for the website
- Supabase for saving data
- Tailwind CSS to make it look nice
- React Router to move between pages
What You’re BuildingGood Tools to UseWhat It’s For
WebsiteReact + TypeScriptMaking interactive websites
StylingTailwind CSSMaking things look pretty
Saving DataSupabaseStoring user information
Managing DataZustandKeeping track of app information

Tips for Different Frameworks

If you’re using React:
  • Say if you want modern or old-style components
  • Mention how you want to handle data
  • Tell it how pages should connect
If you’re using Vue:
  • Specify which Vue style you prefer
  • Mention any UI libraries you like
  • Say what build tool you’re using
For the Backend:
  • Say if you want REST or GraphQL APIs
  • Mention if you need user login
  • Tell it how to check if data is correct

How to Ask Better Questions

Give the AI Context

Help the AI understand your situation:
  • Show it code you already have
  • Tell it which files you’re working on
  • Mention any limits (like “needs to work on old phones”)
  • Say if speed is important
Start Simple, Then Add Details:
  • First, explain what you want in general
  • Then add more specific details
  • Ask follow-up questions if needed
  • Build on what the AI already created

Tips for Different AI Models

For Claude or Gemini:
  • Give all the information at once
  • Use numbered lists to organize your thoughts
  • Include examples of what you want
  • Say how you want the answer formatted
For GPT:
  • Break big requests into smaller pieces
  • Use simple, clear language
  • Show examples of what you mean
  • Be specific about what you want

Avoid Common Mistakes

Don’t do this:
  • Be too vague (“make it better”)
  • Forget to mention important details
  • Use different names for the same thing
  • Forget to say how things should connect
Do this instead:
  • Include clear goals (“make the button blue and centered”)
  • Specify what success looks like
  • Say how you’ll test it
  • Ask for checkpoints along the way
Version Numbers: If you know which version of a tool you’re using, tell the AI. This helps it give you code that works.
Start Simple: Begin with a clear request, then add more details in follow-up messages.

Quick Tips Summary

The Main Rules

  1. Be clear: Say exactly what you want and how it should work
  2. Name your tools: Tell the AI which technologies to use
  3. Give context: Share relevant information and any limits
  4. Start simple: Begin with basics, then add details

Checklist Before You Ask

Before you send your request:
  • ✅ You clearly explained your goal
  • ✅ You listed the tools you want to use
  • ✅ You mentioned the main features you need
  • ✅ You described what success looks like
While building:
  • 🔄 Give feedback on what the AI creates
  • 🔄 Ask for specific changes
  • 🔄 Request explanations if confused
  • 🔄 Use discussion mode to plan

What Makes a Good Request

Good requests have:
  • Clear description of what you want
  • List of tools to use
  • How it should look and feel
  • Any speed or size requirements
  • How it connects to other things
Bad requests are missing:
  • A clear goal
  • Technical details
  • Specific instructions
  • Definition of “done”
Remember: The AI can only work with what you tell it. The more details you give, the better the results.