What to Do When You Aren’t Getting What You Need from AI
When using AI platforms like ChatGPT, you may encounter situations where the AI doesn’t seem to understand your questions or gives unexpected answers. Don’t worry — this is common. You don’t need to be a tech expert to use AI. All it takes is some patience and a bit of know-how. Here are some tips to troubleshoot any issues that arise:
- Clarify your AI input. The first step in troubleshooting is to look at your AI input. Sometimes, the way you phrase your questions or commands can confuse AI. Make sure your input is clear and straightforward. If your question is complex, try breaking it down into simpler parts. This helps the AI understand better and increases your chances of getting the answer you’re looking for.
- Check for common errors. Common errors like typos or using the wrong words can lead to incorrect AI output. Take a moment to review what you’ve written. A quick reread can catch these small mistakes that may be throwing the AI off track.
- Simplify the prompt. If you’re still getting an unclear response, try simplifying your prompt. AI works best with direct and concise questions. Avoid using slang or overly complex language. Stick to the basics and see if that helps the AI understand you better.
- Use different phrasing. Sometimes just rephrasing your question can make a big difference. If you didn’t get the right response the first time, try asking your question differently. This can often give the AI a new perspective and help it provide the correct answer.
- Check the scope of the AI’s knowledge. AI has its limits. It’s based on information available up to a certain point in time. It may not know about recent events or very specific topics. If your question is about something very new or niche, the AI may not have the answer.
- Use feedback features. If you find an error or something unusual in the AI output, use the feedback features available on the platform. This helps the developers know there is an issue, so they can work on fixing it. Your feedback is valuable in improving the AI.
- Take a break and try again later. Sometimes the best solution is to take a break and try again later. This can be especially true if the platform is experiencing high usage or technical issues.
- Consult online resources. If you’re still having trouble, look for online resources or user guides. Many AI platforms have helpful documentation or user forums where you can find tips and advice.
Troubleshooting AI issues doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these tips, you can often solve the problem on your own. Remember to be clear and direct with your AI input, check for common errors, and don’t hesitate to use the resources available to you. With a little practice, you’ll become a pro at interacting with AI platforms.
Ten Components You Can Use to Craft Great AI Prompts
Constructing prompts with several key ingredients lets AI systems generate personalized content tailored to your specific business requirements.
Prioritizing basic details and direction up front saves time over basic prompts that need reworking. Use this chart as a checklist of elements to include:
| Component | Description | Example/Details | Purpose/Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Persona/role definition | Assign a specific persona (for example, author, teacher, designer) with background details. | Previous works, credentials, style | To frame the AI’s response in a specific context. |
| Boundaries/scope | Define the limits like length, depth level, and focus boundaries. | Word count, number of pages, in-depth analysis | To ensure the AI’s output is within the required scope |
| Audience profile | Specify target demographics for personalization. | Age, region, job role, knowledge level, interests | To tailor the content to the specific audience |
| Facts/research | Include relevant research, articles, or data sources. | Links to or copies of applicable information | To inform the AI for customized output |
| Tone | Maintain a specific language style matching the audience and brand. | Clear, neutral language; avoid emotional words unless relevant. | To align the content with brand voice and audience expectations |
| Output format | Provide the expected structure and dimensions. | Text, visuals, document format, number of slides; exact dimensions | To receive the content in the desired format |
| Writing style | Supply samples or list the attributes for a preferred creative style. | Representative samples or a list of ideal attributes | To guide the AI in adopting a specific writing style |
| Situational context | Establish the setting, use case specifics, and previous events. | Setting, use case specifics, previous events for context | To frame the content within a specific situational context |
| Visual components | Request and define necessary visual elements. | Illustrations, data charts, icons, and so on | To enhance the output with relevant visual elements |
| File type | Indicate the expected file format. | DOCX, PDF, JPEG, and soon, suited to the goals | To ensure the output is in a usable and appropriate format |
Ten Strategies for Continuous Learning
Business is constantly changing, especially with AI technology growing rapidly. Continuous learning and adaptability are more important than ever in keeping up with AI technology and industry trends. Continuous learning means always adding to your knowledge and skills. It’s not only about formal education; it’s also about a mindset of growth and curiosity.
In a job market influenced by AI, what you knew a few years ago may not be sufficient today. Technologies change, new tools come out, and the ways we work evolve. Staying informed and skilled in these areas is crucial.
Adaptability is about being flexible and open to change — it’s the ability to adjust to new conditions and challenges. In an AI-driven workplace, this means being ready to work with new technologies, change the way you do things, and even shift to different roles if needed.
When it comes to AI, continuous learning and adaptability are critical. You also need a willingness to take on new challenges. By adopting several of these strategies, you can stay relevant and position yourself as an asset in an AI environment:
- Stay curious and open to learning. Make a habit of exploring new ideas and technologies. This could mean reading industry news, attending webinars, playing with new AI tools to explore their capabilities, or just talking with colleagues about new trends. Keep an open mind and be ready to learn from different sources.
- Take advantage of online learning. Lots of online courses and tutorials are available, many of which are focused on AI and new technologies. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses taught by industry experts. These resources make it easy to learn at your own pace and in your own time.
- Attend workshops and conferences. Participating in workshops and conferences can provide insights into the latest industry trends and technologies. Workshops and conferences also offer networking opportunities, which can prove to be as valuable as the learning experience itself.
- Learn from peers and mentors. Sometimes the best way to learn is from the people around you. Seek out mentors or colleagues who have expertise in areas you’re unfamiliar with. Joining professional groups or online communities can also be a great way to learn from others’ experiences.
- Practice in real-world settings. Applying what you learn in real-world situations is one of the best ways to reinforce your knowledge. Look for opportunities at work to use new skills or tools. Even if it’s just a small project, the experience can be valuable.
- Reflect on your experiences. After trying something new or finishing a project, take some time to think about what you learned. What worked well? What could you do better next time? Reflection helps turn experience into a deeper understanding.
- Be open to change. Change can be challenging, but it’s an opportunity to grow. Be open to new ways of working and be ready to adapt your skills. This may mean taking on different responsibilities at work or even changing your career path.
- Develop soft skills. Along with technical skills, soft skills like problem-solving and teamwork are incredibly important. These skills help you work effectively, both with AI tools and with people.
- Stay focused on your goals. With so much to learn, it can be overwhelming. Keep your career goals in mind and focus on learning things that will help you achieve them. This helps prioritize your learning efforts.
- Balance learning with other responsibilities. It’s important to find a balance between work and your personal life. Set realistic goals and create a learning schedule that fits with your other commitments.
Continuous learning and adaptability are not just about keeping up with AI and technology. They’re about being ready for whatever the future holds. By committing to lifelong learning and being open to change, you’ll be equipped to thrive in an AI-integrated future.
For more great tips on writing effective AI prompts, explore the book.