How to Write Prompts (Coding Edition)

Basics of Prompting Coding AI

AI coding tools' output quality changes greatly with how you ask. Here are coding-specific tips distinct from general prompts.

5 Golden Rules

1. Give Enough Context

Over "fix this code," say "this project uses Next.js 16, TypeScript strict, Vitest. Fix module X like Y."

2. State the Completion Condition

Over "make it nice," say "all tests pass, no lint errors, existing API compatible."

3. Convey Constraints

• "Libraries you may use: existing dependencies only"
• "Don't call external APIs"
• "O(N) or less"
• "Within 100 lines"

4. Use File References

• Cursor: reference with @filename
• Claude Code: "refer to @auth.ts"
• Copilot Chat: auto-references the file open in the editor

5. Ask for a Plan First

"First a 5-step implementation plan.
Start implementing after I OK it.
Ask if questions arise midway"

Frequent Patterns

1. New Feature Addition