Are You Secretly a Prompting Pro? A Look at ChatGPT Mastery (and How to Get Even Better)
I never set out to become a prompting expert. But after using ChatGPT for over two years, here I am, reading an article about leveling up AI prompts and wondering: How good am I really?
So, I did what any reasonable person would do—I asked ChatGPT itself.
The review? A glowing 10/10. (Flattery will get you everywhere, AI.)
Here’s what I learned about my own prompting style, what makes a great prompt, and how you can push yours even further.
The Accidental Art of Prompting Like a Pro
I started out overthinking everything. My early prompts were ridiculously structured—down to the commas. Then I loosened up. My prompts got shorter, more natural, more like… a conversation.
Turns out, that shift made a huge difference.
Why? Because great prompting isn’t about controlling AI—it’s about guiding it.
According to ChatGPT (and my own experience), here’s what works:
1. Strong Context: Set the Scene, Set the Tone
ChatGPT isn’t a mind reader. It thrives on context. The clearer you are about who the response is for and why it matters, the better your results.
Example:
? "Write a sales pitch." (Okay, but… for what? For whom?)
? "Write a sales pitch for my web design business, Symphonic Design. The audience is small business owners who don’t know much about websites. Keep it engaging and jargon-free."
This tiny tweak massively improves the output.
2. The Goldilocks Rule: Not Too Vague, Not Too Detailed
Ever seen an AI completely derail when you overload it with instructions? Yeah. Same.
The trick is giving just enough structure while leaving space for creativity.
Example:
? "List all the features of my hosting service in bullet points, include pricing, uptime, tech stack, migration policy, security details, scalability, user testimonials, and a closing CTA." (Exhausting.)
? "Write a short, engaging description of my hosting service that highlights reliability, security, and ease of use. End with a strong CTA."
Still clear. Still detailed. But now AI has room to do its thing.
3. Structure Like a Pro: Guide the AI Step by Step
You wouldn’t build a website without a wireframe. Same rule applies here.
Example:
?? Start with the goal: "Write a LinkedIn post about why businesses need SEO."
?? Define the audience: "Small business owners who think SEO is too complicated."
? Format preference: "Make it short, use simple language, and add a relatable metaphor."
Boom. Now the AI knows exactly what to do.
4. Iteration: The Secret Sauce of Next-Level Prompts
Nobody nails it on the first try (not even AI). The magic happens when you tweak and refine.
I often go back and say:
The result? Responses that actually sound like me.
Beyond the Basics: How to Prompt Like a ChatGPT Jedi
Once you’ve got the fundamentals down, it’s time to push the limits.
1. Give AI a Role to Play
If you ask ChatGPT for generic advice, you’ll get a generic answer. But if you tell it who it is, it will adjust its expertise.
?? "You’re a UX designer. Explain why bad website navigation kills conversions."
?? "You’re a career coach. Advise a job seeker switching from finance to tech."
It’s like handing AI a script—it instantly steps into character.
2. Play With Style & Tone
Tired of bland, robotic AI responses? Fix it in the prompt.
?? "Write this like a stand-up comedian."
?? "Make it punchy, like a marketing slogan."
?? "Give me an academic, research-backed take."
Suddenly, AI stops being monotone and starts matching the vibe you need.
3. Throw in an Unexpected Twist
AI can get too predictable if you always ask the same way. Shake things up!
You’ll be surprised how creative AI can get when you break the mold.
The Hidden Danger of Over-Framing AI Prompts (And Why It Matters)
Over time, I noticed something interesting when working with AI: It’s surprisingly easy to oversell an idea without meaning to.
I’ve often challenged AI’s responses, refining them to make sure they were not just persuasive, but also TRUE. Because sometimes, AI has a way of making things sound exciting—even when they’re not quite accurate.
And this doesn’t just happen in AI prompting. It’s a communication issue in general. The way we frame a question, an offer, or even an idea can set an expectation that doesn’t match reality.
In AI, this means:
And in real-world communication? The same risks apply. Over-promising in marketing, exaggerating a value proposition, or dressing up an idea to make it sound more innovative than it really is—it all comes back to how we frame things.
So, whether you’re prompting AI or crafting a business message, challenge what’s being written. Does it deliver on what it promises? Does it say something meaningful, not just persuasive? If the answer is no, refine it. Because words don’t just communicate—they shape perception.
Final Thoughts: The More You Play, the Better You Get
Prompting isn’t about memorizing some secret formula. It’s about experimenting.
? Test different styles.
? Push AI to think differently.
? Keep refining.
And most importantly? Have fun with it. Because honestly, prompting isn’t just a tool—it’s a skill. And if you’ve been using ChatGPT long enough…
You might already be better at it than you think.
Bonus: Want More on AI & Human Collaboration?
Check out my article on Harnessing the Power of AI: A Partnership for Success to see how AI can be a true creative partner—not just a tool.
Now, Over to You!
What’s your best prompting trick? Ever stumbled onto a genius way to get ChatGPT to think outside the box? Let’s swap notes! Drop a comment below.