Setting Constraints

Constraints are rules that limit what the AI can do. Far from being restrictive, constraints often lead to more useful, focused outputs.

Why Constraints Improve Output

Without constraints, the AI must guess:

• Length? Subject? Audience? Tone? Goal?

Constraints eliminate guesswork and force focus.

Types of Constraints

Length Constraints

• "Maximum 100 words"
• "Exactly 3 paragraphs"
• "Under 280 characters (Twitter limit)"
• "2-minute read time"

Format Constraints

• "Use bullet points only"
• "No headers or subheadings"
• "Include a code example"
• "Table format required"

Content Constraints

• "Don't mention competitor names"
• "Avoid technical jargon"
• "Must include pricing information"
• "No negative language"

Audience Constraints

• "Appropriate for C-level executives"
• "Readable by a 10-year-old"
• "For developers familiar with Python"

Tone Constraints

• "No humor"
• "Avoid corporate buzzwords"
• "Maintain neutral perspective"
• "Don't be preachy or salesy"

Exercise: Add Effective Constraints

Positive vs Negative Constraints

Positive Constraints (What to do)

• "Include three examples"
• "Start with a hook question"
• "End with a call to action"
• "Reference the attached data"

Negative Constraints (What to avoid)

• "Don't use passive voice"
• "Avoid mentioning price"
• "No personal opinions"
• "Never use the word 'just'"

Both types are valuable and often used together.

Constraint Specificity

Too vague:

"Keep it short"

Better:

"Maximum 150 words"

Too vague:

"Make it professional"

Better:

"Use formal language, no contractions, avoid first person"

Exercise: Specific Constraints for Code

Constraint Combinations

Combine constraints for precision:

Realistic vs Unrealistic Constraints

Realistic:

"Explain quantum computing in terms a high school student would understand."

Unrealistic:

"Explain quantum computing in 10 words while being comprehensive."

Test your constraints for feasibility.

Exercise: Balanced Constraints

Practice: Constraint Audit

Well-crafted constraints are the difference between generic content and exactly what you need.