Prompt engineering is the practice of structuring text inputs to get the best possible results from generative AI models. When working with OpenAI’s GPT models, following a set of systematic strategies can significantly improve output quality. Key strategies include:

1. Write clear instructions: Specify details like persona, target audience, and output format.
2. Provide reference text: Guide the model with trusted source documents to reduce hallucinations.
3. Split complex tasks: Break down workflows into smaller, manageable subtasks.
4. Give the model time to ‘think’: Prompt the model to walk through its reasoning before giving the final answer.
5. Use external tools: Augment capabilities with code execution or web searches.
6. Test changes systematically: Use evaluation frameworks to verify that prompt updates improve overall accuracy.