Last week, we shared a simple framework for writing better prompts — the kind that gets ChatGPT working like your most switched-on team member. (If you missed it, you can catch up here).
But this week, I’m going to let you in on an even bigger shortcut: You don’t actually have to write the perfect prompt yourself – ChatGPT can write the prompt for you.
This week’s AI in 5 is all about meta-prompting — using a prompt to generate a better prompt.
If that sounds a bit like AI inception, don’t worry. It’s simpler than it sounds and could save you hours of trial and error.
You’ll learn how to get ChatGPT to do the heavy lifting – asking it to write the kind of prompt that will get you the results you want. All you need is a clear idea of your goal… and maybe a bit of back-and-forth to refine it.
What better candidate to instruct ChatGPT, than ChatGPT itself!
If you’ve ever typed something into ChatGPT and got an answer that was (well) a bit “meh”, the chances are the prompt was the problem. But not everyone has time to master prompt engineering or memorise clever acronyms.
Here’s the good news: ChatGPT is the expert prompt engineer.
And just like you’d ask your assistant to help draft an email or your marketing lead to shape a campaign brief, you can ask ChatGPT to craft the perfect prompt — for whatever you’re trying to do.
How It Works (With a Real Example)
Let’s say you want to build a Custom GPT — your own AI assistant trained to do a specific task. That’s exactly what I did when I created a GPT that helps me write blog articles (just like this one!).
But instead of writing a long, complex prompt from scratch, I simply asked ChatGPT:
“Can you act as an expert prompt writer and help me write detailed instructions for a Custom GPT? It’s for writing blog articles for senior business leaders who are new to AI. I’ll be giving it a topic and rough notes, and I want it to produce something professional, friendly, and human-first.”
I then provided it with plenty of background information and some examples. Then – and this bit’s key- I added:
“If you need any further information from me to assist you, just ask.”
That last line turns a static prompt into a conversation. And just like a good colleague, ChatGPT will follow up with intelligent questions to help refine the brief.
The end result? A clear, well-written prompt that captures exactly what I need — without me having to wrestle with formatting or structure.
Some people might worry this feels like cheating. But I see it differently. This isn’t about cutting corners — it’s about delegating smartly. I’m not outsourcing my thinking. I’m just getting my AI Assistant to do the first draft, so I can focus on shaping the final product.
But Are You Still Involved? Absolutely!
Now, just to be clear — I don’t hit publish on whatever ChatGPT spits out.
I always take the time to review what it produces, check any facts, and add personal insights or examples. That final polish still comes from me.
In other words, my AI Assistant helps me start faster… but I’m still the one steering the ship.
A Few Tips to Try It Yourself
1. Start with the end in mind
Think: “What task do I want ChatGPT to perform?” Be clear about your goal.
2. Ask it to help you write the prompt
Literally say: “Can you write a good prompt to help with [X]?”
3. Give it context
Briefly explain who you are, what you’re trying to achieve, and who it’s for. Provide as much background information and examples as relevant.
4. Invite clarification
Add something like: “Let me know if you need more details.” That opens the door for refinement — and better results. ChatGPT can then help guide YOU on what information it needs to act as a better assistant for you.
Final Takeaway
The best way to get a great answer from ChatGPT… is to ask it how to ask.
You don’t need to be a prompt wizard. Just treat ChatGPT like a smart assistant who can help you frame the question better.
Think of it like drafting a document with your team: one person starts it, another refines it. In this case, your AI Assistant does the first draft and you bring the human touch.
Want Help Creating Your Own AI Assistant or Custom GPT?
Whether you’re looking to streamline processes, create smarter workflows, or just save your team hours of effort each week, we can help you design AI tools that work for your business.
Get in touch and let’s explore what AI could do for you.
Matt Greaves
CEO and Founder
South West AI Solutions