Practical guide · Editorial method
How to write an AI agent prompt: a task-brief template
Content updated · Editorial guidance; not a hands-on product test.
A useful AI agent prompt specifies the goal, available inputs, constraints, output format, evidence requirements, and a checkable definition of done. Use the template below to turn a vague request into a task you can evaluate.
Start with the deliverable
“Research competitors” leaves too much open. “Create a five-row comparison table of project management tools for a three-person design team” gives the agent something concrete to produce.
Add four pieces of context
- Audience: Who will use the result, and what do they already know?
- Constraints: Budget, geography, deadline, file format, or mandatory features.
- Evidence: Which sources count, and how fresh must they be?
- Completion: What must be present for you to accept the result?
Reusable template
Goal: [the result I need] Audience: [who this is for] Inputs: [files, links, context] Constraints: [must-haves and exclusions] Output: [format and level of detail] Evidence: [sources and dates required] If blocked: explain what is missing and ask one specific question. Stop when: [a checkable definition of done]
One change at a time
When the result misses the mark, identify whether the problem was a missing requirement, a wrong source, or a failed action. Change that part of the brief and rerun the same task. This makes improvements easier to attribute.