The Art of Effective Prompting

Plus a features overview of AI interface essentials

Welcome to Uncharted: A How-To Guide. My new series that is about more than just getting things done — it's about learning to move forward when the path isn't clear. In each installment, I'll share the tools, systems, and mindset shifts that help me work, start new things, and find joy in the unknown. This is for the builders, the navigators, and anyone daring enough to write their own map.

At some point in early 2024, I put a Post-it note on my computer. It read, "Can you use AI for that?" I had certainly tried ChatGPT and other models before that, but I realized that if I was going to understand how to incorporate AI into my workflow better, I would have to rewire my brain to make it a regular part of my day.

Today, I use AI multiple times a day, and I get more and more questions from people asking how to use these tools, which is why I wanted to do this series.

AI Interface Essentials

Before crafting effective prompts, you need to understand the AI tools at your disposal. Here's a quick overview of key interface elements:

• Model Selection: Different models offer varying capabilities. In ChatGPT, you can select GPT-4o or GPT-3.5 from a dropdown menu. More advanced models offer better reasoning but may require paid subscriptions.

• Projects: Organize related conversations together, allowing the AI to maintain context across exchanges. Perfect for separating writing projects, research topics, or creative work.

• Upload & Search: Most tools allow document and image uploads, plus web searching for current information—essential when you need facts beyond the AI's training data.

• Voice & History: Voice interaction lets you dictate prompts, while conversation history preservation allows you to reference previous exchanges.