Why ChatGPT 'Doesn't Work' for Some People: Common Prompt Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Ever Felt Like "ChatGPT Is a Bit Off"?
You spend time writing a prompt, but the response misses the point.
"Why doesn't it get what I mean?"
Often, the issue isn't ChatGPT's performance; it's the way the prompt is written.
This article breaks down the common mistakes of prompts that don't work and shows how to fix them with simple techniques anyone can apply.
🚫 3 Common Mistakes in Bad Prompts
1. 🌀 Too Vague
× "Make it sound good"
× "Write something cool"
AI struggles with "somehow."
Without clear instructions like what to fix, how many words, and who it's for, ChatGPT will fumble.
2. 🗂 Missing Context
× "Improve this." ← Improve what? For what purpose?
Unlike humans, AI doesn't assume context.
Always add background and purpose upfront to get accurate results.
3. 🗣 No Assigned Role
× "What do you think of this sentence?"
○ "You are a professional editor. Please review this article and suggest improvements."
By telling ChatGPT which role to take, the answers align much closer to your expectations.
✅ 3 Techniques for Successful Prompts
1. Communicate the Situation and Purpose
Example:
"You are a science teacher for elementary students. Rewrite the following so a 10-year-old can understand."
2. Specify the Output Format
Example:
"Summarize into three bullet points / Markdown format / No more than 500 characters."
3. Provide Examples to Follow
Example:
"Write in this style: '..., but actually...'."
ChatGPT as a Co-Star, Prompts as Directing
If you treat ChatGPT like a search engine, you'll likely be disappointed.
But if you treat it as a partner that thinks with you, it becomes far more powerful.
Writing prompts is like directing a co-star; the clearer your script, the better the performance.
📝 Conclusion: Prompting Is a New Communication Skill
Prompts aren't commands. They're entrances to dialogue with AI.
The key to using ChatGPT well lies in how you communicate with it; this is becoming a new literacy of the AI era.
If ChatGPT feels "off," start by reviewing your prompts.
A small adjustment may turn frustration into productivity.