A 5-Step Guide to Crafting Effective Prompts in ChatGPT for Problem-Solving

You might have come across the notion that we're only using 10% of our brain's potential. Whether or not that's true, a similar perception seems to exist when we talk about large language models. The recently published paper, Tree of Thoughts: Deliberate Problem Solving with Large Language Models, by researchers from Google DeepMind and Princeton University, suggests a way to harness more of the power of these models. By introducing a new method called the Tree of Thoughts (ToT), they were able to boost GPT-4's performance on an array of problem-solving tasks.

In this guide, I'll share a 5-step strategy to compose effective prompts in ChatGPT for problem-solving, inspired by the ToT method.

Step 1 - Initiate with a role-based prompt

Role-based prompts help ChatGPT adopt a certain mindset or context. This sets the stage for the problem-solving journey.

?? Example: “Act as [job title]...”.

Step 2 - Generate diverse solutions

In this phase, ask ChatGPT to brainstorm different solutions to your problem. By breaking the problem into smaller tasks, we can maintain coherence.

?? Example: “I have a problem related to [describe your problem area]. Could you generate [number] unique solutions through brainstorming? Please consider a range of factors, including [your perfect factors].”

Step 3 - Evaluate the solutions

Now, request ChatGPT to examine the feasibility or potential of each solution, assigning a score to each based on defined criteria.

?? Example: “For each of the [number] proposed solutions, assess their potential by [criteria]. Assign [evaluation metric] to each option, taking into account these factors.”

Step 4 - Elaborate on each solution

Here, instruct ChatGPT to further dissect each solution, generate different scenarios, and evaluate them. Essentially, it's a repeat of steps 2 and 3, but more in-depth.

?? Example: “Delve deeper into the thought process for each solution. Generate possible [number] scenarios, strategies for implementation, required partnerships or resources, and ways to overcome potential obstacles. Additionally, consider any unforeseen outcomes and propose methods for addressing them.”

Step 5 - Choose the best solution

In the final step, ask ChatGPT to rank each scenario, select the most promising solution, and provide justification for its choice. This gives us insights into its decision-making process.

?? Example: “Rank the solutions based on their potential, considering evaluations and scenarios. Justify each ranking and provide any additional thoughts or considerations for each solution.”

?? Bonus - Example: Asking for Flexible Hours

Imagine you want ChatGPT to assist in devising a strategy to ask your boss for more flexible hours. Here's how the prompts would look:

Prompt 1: “Act as HR manager. Your task is to help me to solve difficult problems. Acknowledge this by answering 'YES'.”

Prompt 2: “I want to ask my boss for more flexible hours as I need more time to take care of my kids. Could you generate three unique solutions through brainstorming? Please consider a range of factors, including qualifications, expertise, and unique selling points.”

And so forth, with prompts 3 to 5 following the previous steps. Give this method a try and enhance your problem-solving with ChatGPT!

I hope this guide proves useful! Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences with ChatGPT in the comments. If you found this post valuable, don’t forget to hit the 'Like' button.

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