Iterative Refinement

Great prompts rarely emerge perfectly on the first try. Iterative refinement is the process of systematically improving prompts based on results.

The Iteration Cycle

Common Refinement Patterns

Too Broad → Add Constraints

Too Shallow → Add Depth

Wrong Format → Specify Structure

Exercise: Iterative Improvement

Diagnosing Problems

Output too long?

• Add word/sentence limits
• Request "brief" or "concise"
• Specify exact format

Output too generic?

• Add specific context
• Include examples
• Narrow the scope

Wrong tone?

• Explicitly state tone requirements
• Provide example of desired voice
• Specify what to avoid

Missing key points?

• Explicitly list required elements
• Use "must include" language
• Create a checklist

Before/After Examples

Exercise: Debug and Refine

Tracking Iterations

Keep notes on what worked:

Practice: Iteration Simulation

Every great prompt started as a mediocre one that got refined.