101 Introduction to using AI effectively (prompt engineering)

This session introduces the foundational elements of prompting, helping participants understand how to communicate effectively with AI. It covers essential technical concepts such as context windows, cutoff dates, hallucinations, and parameters, offering a clear understanding of how these factors impact outputs. Participants will explore the background of Generative AI and learn best practices for writing prompts that are clear, goal-oriented, and structured for maximum effectiveness. The CREATE model is introduced as a framework for prompt construction, along with the use of personas to enrich interactions. Key tips for working with tools like Copilot are shared, and common prompting mistakes are discussed to help learners avoid them. Attendees are encouraged to treat AI like a smart intern—useful, capable, and guided by human judgment. The session emphasizes three key stages of prompting: preparation, delivery, and refinement, reinforced by the simple and effective 555 Rule. Finally, it addresses the ethical use of AI and how to stay safe when engaging with these tools.