7 things to say when ChatGPT gives you a bad answer — I use number 6 daily

When ChatGPT provides an incorrect response, you can use specific prompts to guide it towards the desired outcome. Here are seven follow-ups you can copy into your conversation to help get the accurate answer you need:

1. Request ChatGPT to use the details you provided in your original request instead of giving generic advice. For example: "Use the details I gave you, rather than giving me general advice. I have 30 minutes before guests arrive. Prioritize what they'll actually see and skip anything that can wait."

2. Ask ChatGPT to make the response sound like something you would say in real life. You could say: "Make this sound like something I'd actually say out loud. Use everyday language, remove the formal opening and keep it friendly without being overly enthusiastic."

3. If ChatGPT provides a lengthy answer, instruct it to give you the answer first, followed by a concise explanation. For instance: "Give me the answer first, then only the explanation I need. Keep it under 150 words and include any detail that could change your recommendation."

4. When you need an objective viewpoint, ask ChatGPT to provide the strongest argument against your idea. Use this prompt: "What's the strongest argument against my idea? Focus on practical drawbacks, costs I may have overlooked and what would make this a poor choice for me."

5. If there are inconsistencies in your budget or plan, request ChatGPT to recalculate using your original limits. For example: "Redo this using my original limits: $150 total, 10 children and three hours. Include every cost you've accounted for and flag anything you can't fit within those limits."

6. To ensure accuracy, ask ChatGPT to verify which parts of its answer can be verified and which are assumptions. You can use this prompt: "Which parts of this answer can you verify, and which are assumptions? Check current sources where available, link to them and say clearly what you couldn't confirm."

7. If ChatGPT's suggested solution requires more effort than you can currently manage, ask it to suggest the smallest useful step you can take in the near future. Try this prompt: "What's the smallest useful step I can take in the next 10 minutes? Give me one action using what I already have, without setup or a new app."