Good prompts get good code. Great prompts get production-ready code. Here's how to level up.
Technique 1: Specification-First Prompting
Before asking for code, write a brief spec: inputs, outputs, edge cases, constraints. The model will follow it precisely.
Technique 2: Example-Driven Generation
Provide 2-3 examples of the pattern you want. The model generalizes from examples better than from descriptions.
Technique 3: Iterative Refinement
Start broad, then narrow. First generate the structure, then fill in the details, then optimize.
Technique 4: Context Loading
Always include relevant type definitions, existing code patterns, and project conventions in your prompt context.
Technique 5: Negative Constraints
Tell the model what NOT to do. 'Do not use any deprecated APIs' or 'Do not use any external libraries' dramatically improves output quality.