Prompting Fundamentals: The GCSE Framework

Note: I didn't invent this framework, but it's one of the simplest, most effective ways I've found to help people new to large language models (LLMs) think more clearly about their prompts.

Whether you're using Copilot, ChatGPT, or another AI assistant, the difference between "okay" and "outstanding" results often comes down to how you frame your prompt. The GCSE Framework (Goal, Context, Source, Expectations) offers a structured way to do just that.

The GCSE Framework

G. Define the Goal

Ask yourself: What exactly do I want AI to produce or help me with? A vague request like "help me with my writing" can go anywhere. A goal-focused prompt clarifies intent.

Example: "Create a short customer update about our new feature release."

C. Provide Context

AI works best when it knows why you're asking. Give it the background, audience, or situation.

Example: "The message will go to existing users who want to understand what's new without deep technical details."

S. Specify the Source

Clarify which information AI should rely on, whether it's a document, dataset, or your own expertise. If you're working with a lengthier document then you can help with the AI's focus by specifying the page or section of that material.

Example: "Reference the feature announcement draft, focusing on time-saving capabilities and improved accuracy."

Best formats for source materials

Choosing a Format

Preferred formats:

Markdown, JSON, YAML, clean plain text

Generally avoid:

PDF, Word, HTML, scanned images

Why & How to Convert

Poor formats force the model to "read around" weird tables, fonts, and hidden characters, wasting context window space.

Quick fix: Paste the messy document into a fresh AI chat and say: "Convert this to clean Markdown with clear headings and bullet points. Output only the Markdown."

E. Set Expectations

Describe what a good response looks like, including the format, tone, or structure or if you have a previous example then provide and reference it.

Example: "Write three concise bullet points under 25 words each, using approachable language."

* Bonus: Use Lightweight Structure

Wrap major parts of your prompt in clear delimiters so the model instantly sees what's what:

Common Structure Elements

Headers for Hierarchy:

# Primary Topic (Optional) ## Section ### Subsection

Lists for Clarity:

- Bullet point 1 - Bullet point 2 - Bullet point 3

Code Blocks with Optional Language:

```[Code language] [Your content here] ```

GCSE with Structure

## Goal Your one-sentence task here. ## Context Any background the model needs. ## Sources [Paste content here or reference attachments] ## Expectations ### Tone: friendly but professional ### Length: 3 bullets, max 25 words each ### Output Format: - Start with exactly this line...

Putting It All Together

Scenario:

You're preparing a customer update and want clear, engaging copy that highlights benefits and avoids technical jargon.

Full Prompt Example with Structure:

## Goal

Create a short customer update about our new feature release.

## Context

The message will go to existing users who want to understand what's new without deep technical details.

## Sources

[Paste here the clean Markdown version of the feature announcement draft] → Focus especially on time-saving capabilities and improved accuracy

## Expectations

### Tone: friendly, approachable, zero jargon ### Length: exactly 3 bullets, max 25 words each ### Output Format: • Bullet 1 title: [short benefit] • Bullet 2 title: [short benefit] • Bullet 3 title: [short benefit] (No intro, no conclusion, no bold, just the three bullets)

Key Takeaway

Effectively using AI requires a balance between context and focus. If you're getting started with prompting, use the GCSE method with structure to enhance your results and work more effectively.

If you're already comfortable with these fundamental prompting techniques and want to take your skills further, explore the Advanced Prompting Techniques article for more sophisticated strategies.

Sources & Further Reading

If you'd like to explore more ways to strengthen your prompting and AI literacy here are some helpful resources: