1. Plan before prompting
Don’t just say: “Build me a website.”
Instead: “I need a single-page website with a contact form, a navigation bar at the top, and responsive design for mobile.”
➝ Example: Like drawing a rough sketch before asking a contractor to remodel your kitchen.
2. Use product requirements or spec documents
If you want an AI to generate a login system, provide: “Users must sign in with email and password. Passwords must be hashed. Add a ‘Forgot Password’ link.”
➝ Example: Treat it like giving a recipe to a cook,the more details you provide, the closer the result matches your expectations.
3. Iterate often – test early and frequently
Ask the AI: “Write just the login form HTML first,” test it, then move on to authentication.
➝ Example: Like checking one room’s paint color before repainting the whole house.
4. Ask for explanations and improvements
Instead of just copying code, say: “Explain how this loop works and suggest a more efficient version.”
➝ Example: Like asking a mechanic to explain a repair before approving it, you’ll catch hidden issues.
5. Keep control over context and scope
Rather than: “Build me an e-commerce site,”
Say: “Start with a product catalog page that lists 10 items with name, price, and add-to-cart button.”
➝ Example: Like telling a chef to prepare the appetizer first before the full meal.
6. Guard against drifting goals
If the AI starts suggesting advanced payment integrations when you only asked for a catalog, gently redirect: “Ignore payments for now just focus on product display.”
➝ Example: Like reminding a handyman to fix the leaky faucet before they start remodeling your bathroom.
7. Reject or adjust buggy or low-quality code
When AI code doesn’t run, respond: “The code throws an error at line 15 please debug and correct it.”
➝ Example: Like sending back undercooked food at a restaurant instead of eating it.
8. Capture essence, not just specifics
Instead of dictating every CSS color, say: “Make the page look like a clean modern tech startup website.”
➝ Example: Like telling a tailor you want “business casual” instead of listing every clothing item.
9. Balance automation and human oversight
AI can write a function to handle passwords, but you still need to review for security flaws.
➝ Example: Like using a dishwasher but still checking if a plate came out dirty.
10. Learn to “speak code prompts” well
If you say: “Make a button,” results vary.
If you say: “Create a large blue button in the center of the page labeled ‘Sign Up Now’ that links to signup.html,”you’ll get exactly what you want.
➝ Example: Like ordering coffee – “coffee” could mean anything, but “medium latte with almond milk, no sugar” leaves no doubt.