Understanding AI Model Capabilities
Different AI models have different strengths and limitations. Effective prompt engineering involves adapting your communication style to leverage each model’s capabilities optimally.Technology Stack Specification
Be Explicit About Technologies
AI models work best when you clearly specify your preferred technology stack. This ensures the generated code uses the right frameworks, libraries, and architectural patterns from the start. Clear Stack Specification:Recommended Technology Combinations
| Category | Primary Choice | Alternatives | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frontend Framework | React + TypeScript | Vue.js, Svelte, SolidJS | Interactive web applications |
| Styling | Tailwind CSS | CSS Modules, Styled Components | Utility-first styling |
| Backend | Supabase | Express.js, FastAPI | Full-stack applications |
| State Management | Zustand | Redux, Jotai | Complex application state |
| Data Fetching | TanStack Query | SWR, Apollo | Server state management |
Framework-Specific Considerations
React Applications:- Specify component structure (functional vs class components)
- Include state management preferences
- Define routing approach (React Router, Next.js App Router)
- Specify composition API vs options API
- Include UI library preferences (Quasar, Vuetify)
- Define build tool (Vite, Vue CLI)
- Specify API patterns (REST, GraphQL)
- Include authentication requirements
- Define data validation approach (Zod, Joi)
Advanced Prompting Techniques
Contextual Information
Provide Relevant Context:- Include existing code snippets when relevant
- Reference specific files or components
- Mention current technology constraints
- Specify performance requirements
- Start with high-level requirements
- Add implementation details iteratively
- Use follow-up prompts for clarification
- Build upon previous responses
Model-Specific Optimization
Claude/Gemini Models:- Provide comprehensive context upfront
- Use structured formats (numbered lists, sections)
- Include examples and edge cases
- Specify output format preferences
- Break complex requests into smaller parts
- Use clear, direct language
- Provide concrete examples
- Specify desired output structure
Error Prevention
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:- Vague requirements that lead to assumptions
- Missing technical specifications
- Inconsistent naming conventions
- Unspecified integration requirements
- Include acceptance criteria
- Specify testing requirements
- Define success metrics
- Request validation checkpoints
Version Specification: When possible, specify framework versions to ensure compatibility and avoid deprecated
features.
Iterative Refinement: Start with a clear prompt, then use follow-up messages to add details and make adjustments
as needed.
Best Practices Summary
Essential Prompting Principles
- Clarity First: Be specific about what you want to build and how it should work
- Technology Specification: Clearly state your preferred frameworks and libraries
- Context Provision: Include relevant background information and constraints
- Iterative Approach: Start simple, then add complexity through follow-up prompts
Quality Checklist
Before Submitting:- ✅ Goal is clearly defined
- ✅ Technology stack is specified
- ✅ Key features are listed
- ✅ User requirements are outlined
- ✅ Success criteria are defined
- 🔄 Provide feedback on generated code
- 🔄 Request specific modifications
- 🔄 Ask for explanations when needed
- 🔄 Use discussion mode for planning
Common Success Patterns
Effective Prompts Include:- Specific functionality requirements
- Technology stack preferences
- User experience considerations
- Performance and scalability needs
- Integration requirements
- Clear objectives
- Technical specifications
- Implementation details
- Success criteria
Remember: The AI can only work with the information you provide. The more specific and complete your prompts, the
better the results.
