Prompting Frameworks

NoteKey Takeaways
  • High-quality prompts eliminate ambiguity - Clear context upfront gets better responses
  • Use structured frameworks, e.g. the CLEAR framework, to ensure complete prompts
  • Never share sensitive data - No personal records, confidential research, or security information

High-quality prompts that eliminate ambiguity are crucial for getting useful responses from Large Language Models. By providing comprehensive context upfront, you’re more likely to receive output that matches your requirements.

Scenario: You have been tasked with running a campaign to increase recruitment of European students for your University’s MSc Engineering programs.

You write the initial prompt:

Write something about recruiting students.

Problems with this prompt:

We can use some frameworks to standardize our queries and make sure they are complete and don’t forget any relevant details. There’s no right or wrong approach — different frameworks may work better for different AI tools and yourself, so use the one that works better for you.

The CLEAR Framework

The CLEAR framework offers a systematic approach to prompt construction that ensures comprehensive communication with AI models.

Context - Establish the situation and background

  • Explain who you are and what you’re working on
  • Provide relevant background information about your project or industry
  • Include any important constraints or considerations

Length - Define output requirements

  • Specify how much content you want (word count, number of items, etc.)
  • Indicate format preferences (paragraphs, bullet points, sections)
  • Include any structural requirements

Examples - Illustrate desired outcomes

  • Show examples of the style or format you’re looking for
  • Provide sample inputs or scenarios when relevant
  • Include both positive examples (what you want) and negative examples (what to avoid)

Action - State the specific task

  • Clearly articulate what you want the AI to do
  • Use specific action verbs (create, analyze, summarize, compare)
  • Be direct and avoid ambiguous language
  • Focus on one primary task per prompt

Role - Define the AI’s perspective

  • Specify what expertise or viewpoint the AI should adopt
  • Indicate the audience the AI should write for
  • Guide the AI’s approach and decision-making framework

A good prompt example using the CLEAR framework:

Context: I work at a UK university’s admissions office recruiting European students for MSc Engineering programs. Brexit has reduced EU applications by 30%. Our university offers excellent industry links, modern facilities, and 95% graduate employment rates within 6 months.
Length: Create a 250-350 word recruitment email with a compelling subject line and clear call-to-action.
Examples:
- Include brief testimonial format: “Maria from Spain: ‘Best decision for my career’”
- Avoid: overly academic jargon or bureaucratic language
Action: Write a digital marketing email to attract European students to apply for our MSc Engineering programs (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil).
Role: Act as an experienced international student recruitment specialist who understands European students’ concerns about studying in the UK post-Brexit. Emphasize our university’s unique value proposition while addressing practical benefits like industry connections, career prospects, and international community. Focus on inspiring confidence in their investment in UK engineering education.

ImportantUniversity of Bristol guidance

Independently of the prompting framework that you are using, never share these with AI tools:

🚫 Personal data: Student records, staff information, health data
🚫 Confidential research: Unpublished findings, grant applications under review
🚫 Commercial sensitive: Partnership agreements, financial information
🚫 Legal privileged: Legal advice, disciplinary proceedings
🚫 Security sensitive: Passwords, system configurations, access credentials

Find more →


Exercise 3: Building Workplace Prompts

Scenario: You’re organizing a workshop on “Digital Skills for Academics” at the University of Bristol.

Task: Create a prompt to help design the workshop agenda.

Requirements:

  • Use the CLEAR framework
  • Include appropriate constraints
  • Maintain academic integrity

Reflection Questions:

  • How do your prompts ensure AI enhances rather than replaces your expertise?
  • What verification steps would you take for each output?
  • How would you attribute AI assistance appropriately?

Create a prompt to help design a workshop on “Digital Skills for Academics” at the University of Bristol.

Context: I’m a University of Bristol academic organizing a “Digital Skills for Academics” workshop for faculty from various disciplines with mixed technical backgrounds.
Length: Create a detailed 3-hour workshop agenda with 15-30 minute segments.
Examples: Include interactive elements like hands-on activities and small group discussions, similar to effective pedagogical workshops I’ve attended.
Action: Design an agenda that balances presentation, demonstration, and practice, progressing from basic to advanced concepts.
Role: Act as an experienced workshop facilitator specializing in faculty development.
Additional Constraints:
- Maximum 20 participants to allow for individual attention.
- Must include time for networking and peer learning.
- Consider accessibility needs and different learning styles.
- Include evaluation/feedback collection methods.
- Build in buffer time for technical issues.