A prompt can include a question, instructions, examples and source material. In a chat, earlier messages can also influence the next answer.
A practical example
“Turn these notes into three bullet points for a project update” is a prompt. Adding the audience and notes makes it more specific.
What to remember
A longer prompt is not automatically a better one. Conflicting instructions or irrelevant background can make the task harder to interpret.
Put it into practice
Use the answer-checking guide to keep evidence and uncertainty visible when working with AI.