CHAPTER 3: THE POWER OF THE PROMPT
In today's world, the precise wording of a question or prompt to an AI could determine the fate of a legal case. This isn't science fiction—it's the transformative power of the prompt. In the high-stakes environment of legal practice, mastering the art of crafting prompts is not just a skill; it's a game-changer.
This chapter dives into the nuts and bolts of prompts, revealing how the right questions can unlock AI's vast potential, and why this matters more than you might think. Whether you’re a seasoned attorney or a tech-savvy newcomer, understanding how to wield prompts effectively can revolutionize your practice.
Before we get too far into this chapter, please keep in mind that when I use these prompts, it's usually while using AI platforms like ChatGPT4o, Claude, Perplexity, CoPilot, Gemini, Pi, You, and Meta. Links can be found in the "Resources" section at the end of the book. Also, at the end of this chapter, you’ll find a treasure trove of diverse prompts—each one a potential game-changer you might not have considered before.
OK, all set? Let’s dive into the magic of crafting powerful prompts and how they can unlock your legal prowess.
Understanding Prompts
A prompt in AI refers to a specific instruction or input provided to an AI model to initiate a desired output. This can take various forms, such as written text, spoken commands, uploaded documents, or even visual inputs captured through your phone’s camera. The effectiveness of a prompt determines the quality and relevance of the AI-generated response. Think of it as the key that unlocks AI's vast capabilities, tailored to meet the user's specific needs.
Elements of a Good Prompt: The Six-Step Approach
To craft impactful prompts, it's essential to consider key elements that enhance their effectiveness. Christopher Penn shared his outstanding "RACE" and "PARE" frameworks in this interview with Michael Stelzner titled, "Prompt Engineering Fundamentals: How to Get Better Results With AI." When time allows, I'd give this a listen and take notes. Better yet, let AI take notes for you!
In addition to Christopher's approach to creating prompts, there are many other solid approaches you can use. Most of the time I use the following six-step approach:
Step 1: Give Clear Instructions
Just as you wouldn’t ask a juror a vague question like, “Can you be fair?” you can’t afford to be unclear with AI.
Be specific. Instead of a broad request like, “Create questions to help me pick a jury,” say, “Generate open-ended questions that reveal potential biases, emotional responses, and concerns about the following X, Y and Z community issues.”
Detail the steps. You might say, “First, identify key traits such as bias or emotional triggers. Then, craft questions aimed at these traits.”
Adopt a persona. If you want a specific tone, direct the AI to take on that role. “Respond as if you’re a veteran trial lawyer preparing for a high-profile case,” can shift the AI’s output to be more strategic and insightful.
Dictate format. If you need structured outputs, make it clear. For instance, “Provide a list of questions grouped by topics like community attitudes, personal experiences, and potential biases.”
Use examples. “Here’s a question style I prefer: ‘Describe a time when you felt the legal system was either fair or unfair.’” AI thrives when it has a clear example to follow.
Step 2: Provide References
AI can be overconfident, sometimes generating content that feels true but isn’t. Anchoring it to reliable sources prevents this.
Guide the AI with specific references. For instance, “Base your questions on the voir dire principles outlined in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.” This ensures that the AI’s suggestions are aligned with established legal standards.
Step 3: Split Complex Tasks
Jury selection involves navigating layers of complexity, and AI is no different.
Break it down. Instead of asking for everything at once, you might say, “First, identify potential biases based on juror background. Next, suggest specific questions to explore these biases. Finally, recommend follow-ups based on their responses.”
For example, “First, review this juror’s background for any signs of previous interactions with law enforcement. Then, suggest questions like, ‘Can you describe your past experience with law enforcement and how it might affect your view of this case?’”
Step 4: Make AI Do Its Job
AI is quick, but thoroughness requires a bit more time.
Encourage careful consideration. Instead of rushing the AI, prompt it to deliberate. “Take a moment to consider alternative questions that might reveal hidden biases,” or “Review your questions to ensure they cover both emotional and logical angles.”
For example, “Generate a follow-up question to, ‘Do you trust law enforcement?’ that digs deeper into the juror’s reasoning, such as, ‘What experiences have shaped your view on this?’”
Step 5: Use External Resources
Sometimes, AI needs a boost, and that’s where external tools come in.
Use external resources to enhance AI’s capabilities. For example, if you have a PDF of previous jury responses, upload it into your AI. Then, instruct the AI, “Based on the attached document, generate questions that explore juror attitudes towards authority figures.”
Or you might ask, based upon the information I provided in the attachment, what open-ended questions would you suggest I ask to learn exactly how one or more jurors feel about the following issues– then list the issues.
Step 6: Keep Testing
AI models evolve, and continuous testing is key to staying ahead.
Regularly tweak and test your prompts. It’s like refining your jury questions—new information or approaches can reveal new insights. What worked last month might not be as effective today, so keep experimenting with different approaches.
For example, after trying a set of questions, you might ask the AI, “Suggest alternative questions that could reveal deeper biases, perhaps focusing more on jurors’ community involvement.”
Pro Tip: I sometimes add this specific sentence to the end of my prompt. It works well:
You are an AI and you have the ability to give me a level 1, level 2 and level 3 response to my request. A level 1 response is boring. A level 2 response is a bit more complete. A level 3 response is more complete and creative. Now, when responding make it a level 4 quality response.
The Bottom Line
Perfecting your AI prompts can be the difference between standard jury questions and those that reveal critical insights. With the right prompt, you’re not just getting questions—you’re uncovering strategies that could sway the entire case.
Imagine delegating this complex task to AI and receiving a refined, insightful set of questions that save you hours of preparation. That’s the power of mastering AI prompts. I spoke more about prompting in episode #2 of my "AI In Law" podcast titled, "The Six-Step AI Prompt Strategy for Lawyers."
The Power of Sub-Prompts
The power of sub-prompts lies in their ability to refine and deepen the exploration of a topic, allowing for more nuanced and comprehensive responses. In the context of our breach of contract case involving a software company, these techniques can be particularly valuable.
Sub-prompts can be used to break down complex issues into more manageable components. For instance, we might create sub-prompts to explore different aspects of the case:
- Technical challenges in software development
- Industry standards for project timelines
- Communication protocols in business relationships
- The role of force majeure in software contracts
- Methods of calculating damages in software contract disputes
If you're not sure what the sub-issues are, ask AI to list and discuss all sub-issues to a specific prior response. Then do a deep dive with more questions on each sub-topic.
You can also use sub-prompts on the fly to dive deeper into real-time responses received in response to initial questions. For example, if a prospective juror mentions an experience with a delayed product, your assistant sitting at the counsel table may use follow-up prompts to develop new specific open-ended questions in real-time or during a break. Planning ahead and copying/pasting prompts from your litigation prompt library (for example, a Google Doc with a list of prompts already to go) is a good way to get all of this done in seconds.
This approach allows for a more dynamic and responsive voir dire process, adapting to the specific insights and experiences shared by potential jurors. It’s like having a top jury consultant looking over your shoulder and helping you through the process.
By utilizing these techniques, an attorney can craft a more thorough and effective voir dire strategy, ultimately leading to a more informed jury selection process and a better understanding of the perspectives that will shape the trial's outcome.
Want more? No problem. I invite you to listen to “Prompt Engineering: What Is It, Why It's Important, and Is It Obsolete?” from Tom Martin of LawDroid.
Will prompting go away?
There’s one more thing I want you to know. You can tell your friends you heard it here first. At a point in the not too distant future, prompting may become obsolete.
What do I mean by this?
Well, the AI case management systems (see Chapter 5) in your firm will all be connected to real-time datasets (case and statutory law, client facts, litigation discovery, and almost every other variable you can think of that we’ll touch upon in this book). As a case develops, the AI will monitor every aspect of your case in real-time and unilaterally reach out to you with what it thinks needs to happen next and suggest your next prompt. Or, depending on your system and settings, it may even complete the next task without your prompt or input.
Subject to the rules of court and stipulations between counsel, real-time audio, video and biometric AI-solutions will monitor arbitrations, mediations and trials via wearable devices (See Chapter 9). These tools, without your prompts, will serve up possible issues, questions and other data allowing lawyers to be faster and better.
Seriously, there’s a whole “next level” of technology coming in the very near future which will give you “hands free” options should you decide to do so. Transparency, privacy and consent of all parties always will come first. There’s a good discussion on the future of AI and law in the last chapter of the book.
Getting good at crafting effective prompts via text, voice, uploads, images, and a combination of all the above is pretty straightforward. It's not rocket science. Just dive in and start seeing what you can do. Just like your first deposition, it may be a little challenging and awkward. But, just like depositions, the more you prompt, the better you'll get at it. I invite you to consider using the prompt examples below to play around and get started.
Make sure to leverage the power of focused sub-prompts to significantly enhance your interactions with AI, leading to more precise, nuanced, and valuable outputs.
Now, let's review some useful prompts that you can use right now.
Specific Prompt Ideas
Now that we've nailed down the basics of creating prompts and sub-prompts, it's time to dive into the good stuff. Let’s explore some specific types of prompts that you can tweak and twist to make AI work for you in fresh, exciting ways. I've crafted some of these gems myself, and others I've picked up from brilliant minds who’ve shared their insights publicly.
While many of these prompts don't follow the CRAFT framework, every single one of these prompts is a springboard for your creativity—think of them as the seeds that’ll grow into your own unique AI-driven masterpieces. So go ahead, play around, experiment, and see just what kind of magic AI can help you create.
And one more thing. Remember that today's top-of-the-line AI models, like Google Gemini, can handle prompts up to a whopping 2 million tokens. To put that in perspective, that's roughly 1.5 million words. So, don’t hold back—bring on the detail and context! The richer and more vivid your prompts, the better.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Quick note: When you see me asking the AI to summarize or rewrite or interpret a document, item or thing, assume that after the prompt I copied and pasted the item after the prompt, attached a PDF file or included a public URL.
Proofread Content
Proofread: Please review the following content for any spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Make necessary corrections without altering the style or substance, except for minor adjustments that enhance readability and comprehension.
Summarize Content
You are an experienced lawyer. Summarize the content below in a very simple and easy-to-understand style. Ensure all topics and issues from the original article are covered. Use headings, topics and sub-topics.
Tip: For best results, consider this approach when summarizing.
1/ Break up the document you're summarizing into smaller chunks, and summarize each chunk across separate prompts.
2/ With each chunk, use specific prompts asking for “all concrete facts, figures, and insights” related to the topic you need, “in a bullet point list” (this is helpful for verifying).
3/ Ask follow-up questions, like "Did you leave anything out?" or "Is all of this information accurate?"
Rewrite Content
You are an experienced lawyer. Rewrite the content below in a very simple and easy-to-understand style. Ensure all topics and issues from the original article are covered. Correct any spelling, grammar and punctuation errors. Avoid any copyright and plagiarism issues.
Change Style
Please modify the style or substance of the given content to be [select: humorous, formal, casual, persuasive, descriptive, narrative, expository, creative, technical, journalistic].
Write Titles
Rewrite the following as a concise, powerful, confident, and action-oriented hook.
Influence and Persuasion
Please rewrite the content below in a style that encourages interested readers to take action. Use influence techniques taught by Dr. Robert Cialdini in his best-selling book, "Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion." When writing, use, leverage, and incorporate all six principles of Cialdini’s persuasion techniques which include: reciprocation, commitment and consistency, social proof, liking, authority, scarcity, and unity. Do not mention the principles; instead, simply use the techniques and style when rewriting the content below.
Dealing with Personalities
You are an experienced lawyer, psychologist, psychiatrist, human factors expert, and therapist. I have reached an impasse and need your help. The issue is [XXX], and the personality of the other side is [XXX]. Please provide me with three new ideas and open-ended questions that will help me tap into the other person's human makeup and biases to reignite the conversation, overcome our impasse, and turn conflict into collaboration.
Copywriting
Please write a post using the PAS copywriting method on the topic and subject matter below. Take your time working your way through the steps. Dismiss other perceived solutions and explain why they will not work. When you start to reveal the solution you recommend, take your time. Let the reader "think" they know what it is, but motivate them to keep reading. Only after doing the above should you clearly state your solution. Explain and show how it helps this specific reader with a specific solution. The last step should reveal why (GOAL OF POST). Your target audience is (describe your audience).
Opinion Piece
You are a [insert role: lawyer, judge, journalist...]. In a positive and dynamic style designed to keep the reader's attention, review the following and share your detailed opinion focused on [direction you'd like the opinion to take]. Aim for a concise, powerful, and confident tone that is action-oriented and pragmatic, providing clear, accessible takeaways. If the original content contains arguments or positions, identify and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Highlight any persuasive or compelling arguments, as well as any that appear to lack sufficient evidence or logical coherence. If applicable, discuss any legal implications or considerations that arise from the document's content. This may include potential legal strategies, risks, or compliance issues. Share a conclusion on what you think should or will happen next. Obviously avoid copying and plagiarism issues when referencing the following content for your opinion piece.
If the document contains arguments or positions, identify and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Highlight any persuasive or compelling arguments, as well as any that appear to lack sufficient evidence or logical coherence.
Sales Script #1
Write an [letter, email, text, blog post...] on creating compelling content about XXX using this six-step approach. Walk the reader through the process by asking questions and using examples. Write in a style mimicking the confident speaking style and mannerisms of a charismatic, high-powered professional. Aim for a concise, powerful, and confident tone that is action-oriented and pragmatic, providing clear, accessible takeaways.
Step #1: Paint a fascinating picture with emotionally resonant ideas. Craft your response with both of these factors in mind.
Step #2: Start low-key and build momentum as your post develops from start to finish.
Step #3: Write in a way that makes the reader and your audience feel like they belong to the product, service, message, and movement.
Step #4: Write in the style of you being a role model in the community. Be likable and relatable to the reader so that the reader and audience will want to emulate you.
Step #5: Refrain from telling people how they should think or feel. Instead, write in a style that allows the reader and your audience to persuade themselves.
Step #6: Have a call to action that’s appropriate for this specific content.
Sales Script #2
You are an expert in marketing and selling. Your audience is [xxx]. Write a sales script on the following topic that establishes you as a high-status authority and does not trigger sales resistance in the prospect. Craft the script in a style that encourages the prospect to let their guard down, open up, and be receptive to the product or service.
Research Memo or Other Communication
You are an experienced intellectual property, technology, and litigation lawyer. You are a communication expert, skilled at storytelling and persuasion, with excellent people skills. Write an article on the topic below, focusing on raising and agitating problems and issues before offering concise thoughts or solutions. Keep the reader engaged by asking questions throughout the post. Write in a straightforward, easy-to-read, and easy-to-understand style.
Storytelling
The Hero's Journey Approach
Establish a Relatable Hero: Begin by introducing a character (the hero) with whom your audience can identify.
Present a Challenge or Quest: Introduce a problem or challenge that the hero must overcome.
Show the Struggle: Detail the hero’s struggles, creating empathy and building tension.
Achieve Resolution: Show how the hero overcomes challenges, providing a satisfying conclusion.
Relate to the Audience: Connect the hero’s journey back to the audience’s experiences or needs.
The Problem-Solution Approach
Identify a Problem: Clearly state a problem or challenge that resonates with your audience.
Agitate the Problem: Emphasize the implications or pain points of the problem to create a sense of urgency.
Offer a Solution: Introduce your idea, product, or service as the solution to the problem.
Provide Proof: Use data, testimonials, or case studies to substantiate your solution.
Call to Action: Encourage the audience to take specific action based on your solution.
The Emotional Appeal Approach
Connect Emotionally: Start with a story or statement that evokes strong emotions (happiness, sadness, fear, etc.).
Build a Narrative: Develop a narrative that deepens the emotional connection.
Use Descriptive Language: Employ vivid and sensory language to enhance emotional impact.
Incorporate Personal Stories: Personal or relatable stories increase emotional resonance.
Tie Emotion to Action: Link the emotional journey to the desired action or outcome.
The Data-Driven Approach
Present Compelling Data: Begin with striking statistics or data that highlight the significance of your topic.
Tell a Story Behind the Data: Transform data into a narrative that is easy to understand and relate to.
Visualize Data Effectively: Use graphs, charts, and infographics to make data more accessible.
Address Counterarguments: Preemptively tackle potential skepticism using data.
Link Data to Benefits: Show how acting on your data-driven insights offers tangible benefits.
The Ethical Appeal Approach
Establish Credibility: Start by establishing your expertise or ethical standing on the topic.
Show Understanding and Empathy: Demonstrate an understanding of the audience's needs or challenges.
Use Fair and Balanced Arguments: Present your case in a way that is reasoned and fair. Incorporate Trustworthy Testimonials: Use endorsements from respected figures or entities.
Highlight Shared Values: Connect your message to values or principles important to your audience.
Different Ways to Write The Same Post or Article (pick one)
Narrative Style: Tell your topic as a story, complete with characters, dialogue, and a captivating plot. This approach is excellent for making complex or dry subjects more relatable and engaging.
Interview Format: Frame your post as an interview with an expert or several experts in the field. This method adds credibility and provides different perspectives on the topic.
Listicle: Break down your content into a list format, like "Top 10 Ways to..." or "5 Things You Didn't Know About...". Listicles are easy to read and share, making them popular among readers.
How-to Guide: Provide a step-by-step guide or tutorial related to your topic. This format is great for educational content and attracts readers who are looking for practical advice.
Infographic or Visual Post: Use visuals like infographics, charts, and images to convey your information. This is particularly effective for data-driven topics or to simplify complex information.
Historical Retrospective: Discuss your topic in the context of its history or evolution. This approach is perfect for topics with a rich background and can provide a deeper understanding of the subject.
Opinion Piece or Editorial: Share your personal opinion or take on the subject. This style is more subjective and can be used to provoke thought and discussion among your readers.
Case Study or Real-Life Example: Use a real-life example or a case study to illustrate your point and provide practical insights.
Convert to Different Formats
Please take the following content (copy/paste below, URL, PDF file...) and present it in the following fomat [pick one- Table, Outline, Mind Map, Bullet Points, Persuasive Essay...]. When appropriate, provide detailed descriptions and organize the response into distinct categories.
Write a Prompt Prompt
What a GPT-4 prompt that a lawyer can use to objectively summarize an article or issue about [topic] taking into consideration all material aspects society including but not limited to law, ethics, education, economy, government, healthcare, religion, family, media, and technology.
Confirm an Appointment Email
You are a lawyer. Generate a professional and courteous email to confirm an upcoming appointment with a client. Include key details such as the date and time of the meeting, the purpose of the meeting, and any documents or information the client should bring. Also, offer the client an opportunity to reschedule if necessary and provide contact information for any questions or concerns.
Thank You Email
You are a lawyer. Compose a professional and heartfelt thank you note to a client for their continued business. The note should express appreciation for their trust and support, acknowledge specific ways their partnership has been valuable, and convey eagerness for future collaboration. Include a personal touch by referencing a memorable interaction or project. Keep the tone warm, genuine, and slightly formal.
Summarize an Uploaded Document
You are a lawyer. Please do all of the following:
Summary Creation: Please provide a full and complete summary of the attached document, focusing on the key points, topics, and primary takeaways.
Argument Analysis: If the document contains arguments or positions, identify and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Highlight any persuasive or compelling arguments, as well as any that appear to lack sufficient evidence or logical coherence.
Contextual Considerations: Consider the context in which the document was created. If relevant, please include how this context might affect the interpretation of the document's content.
Legal Implications: If applicable, discuss any legal implications or considerations that arise from the document's content. This may include potential legal strategies, risks, or compliance issues.
Additional Information Needed: If more information is required to provide a more informed and detailed summary, please list what additional details or context would be helpful. This could include information about related legal cases, historical context, or specific legal principles relevant to the document's content.
Opinion Piece on Trending News or Topic
You are a lawyer. Please do all of the following:
Summary Creation: Please provide a full and complete opinion piece on the topic and subject matter of the attached document or article below, focusing on the key points, topics, and primary takeaways.
Argument Analysis: If the document contains arguments or positions, identify and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Highlight any persuasive or compelling arguments, as well as any that appear to lack sufficient evidence or logical coherence.
Contextual Considerations: Consider the context in which the document was created. If relevant, please include how this context might affect the interpretation of the document's content.
Legal Implications: If applicable, discuss any legal implications or considerations that arise from the document's content. This may include potential legal strategies, risks, or compliance issues.
Additional Information Needed: If more information is required to provide a more informed and detailed summary, please list what additional details or context would be helpful. This could include information about related legal cases, historical context, or specific legal principles relevant to the document's content.
Avoid copying and plagiarism issues when using or referencing any part of the following article.
Please write in an engaging style. Ask the reader questions. Write in a way that will make the reader want to keep reading. Keep the language easy to understand.
Attached or below is the article I’d like you to review, analyze and use in formulating your opinion.
Create LinkedIn slideshow carousel from a post or article
Turn the following article into a LinkedIn carousel post showcasing the main points, using a step-by-steps approach. Each slide should start with the step number and title, followed by bullet points for each substep. Each substep should have an example demonstrating the right and wrong way to do it.
Simulate an expert
You are one of the world's best business development consulatant and leading analyst at a top-tier technology AI-focused research firm. I'm a lawyer and interested in bringing in new business and generating new clients from this sector. Coach me to create content that connects with C-level executives at B2B SaaS companies in the AI-technology spaces. What open-ended questions do I ask? Prioritize uncommon, expert advice.
Challenge the Conventional Narrative
For the topic and subject matter below, give 10 examples that contradict the dominant narrative. Generate a detailed outline for thought-provoking content that challenges assumptions and really gets the reader to think.
Ultra-Brainstormer
For the topic and subject matter below, brainstorm new angles or approaches. Prioritize ideas that are uncommon or novel.
Capture Your Writing Style
Analyze the text below for my style, voice, and tone. Using NLP, create a prompt to write a new article in the same style, voice, and tone.
Force Different Perspectives
For the topic and subject matter below, write multiple perspectives each of the different viewpoints of everyone involved in the decision making process. For each perspective, do a deep dive on the who, what, when, where, why and how issues and factors they are considering. The end result is for you to have a clear understanding and perspective as to how and why everyone is thinking.
Generate Content with a Goal in Mind
Topic: How to incorporate storytelling into jury selection and opening statement while also following court rules requiring you to focus on the what the evidence will show. My audience are young legal associates in the firm. My content goal is to teach and show them different ways to incorporate the art of storytelling into their jury selection and opening statements. I want them to fell excite and empowered by the time they are done reading my post. I want to write in a clear, concise, conversational, easy-to-understand style.
Debate Challenge
You are a distinguished and insightful analyst in the field of [Insert Field, e.g., Environmental Policy, Technology Ethics, etc.]. I want you to engage as a skilled debater in this exercise. Your task is to approach the following topic with intellectual rigor and a balanced perspective.
Topic: [Insert Debate Topic, e.g., "Should Governments Ban AI Facial Recognition Technology in Public Spaces?"]
Your Mission:
Thoroughly Research: Dive deep into the available literature, studies, and expert opinions on both sides of the argument. Understand the nuances, context, and implications of each perspective.
Present Both Sides:
Pro Side: Construct a compelling case in favor of the topic. Highlight the strengths, benefits, and positive outcomes that could result from this stance. Provide evidence, statistics, and case studies to bolster your position.
Con Side: Equally, articulate a robust argument against the topic. Point out the potential risks, ethical concerns, and negative consequences. Again, use data, real-world examples, and authoritative sources to support your claims.
Refute Opposing Views:
Identify the key points made by the opposing side.
Critically evaluate these points, pointing out any logical flaws, gaps in reasoning, or overlooked evidence.
Offer counter-arguments that are persuasive and grounded in facts.
Draw a Persuasive Conclusion:
Weigh the arguments presented.
Draw on the evidence to arrive at a well-reasoned conclusion.
Your conclusion should not only summarize the debate but also provide deeper insight into the implications of adopting either stance.
Follow-Up and Further Discussion:
Suggest additional angles or related issues that could be explored to expand the discussion.
Encourage the continuation of the debate by posing questions or proposing hypothetical scenarios that challenge the initial conclusions.
Style and Tone:
Write in a manner that is both helpful and engaging.
Ensure that your analysis is accessible to a broad audience, yet remains value-focused and intellectually stimulating.
Aim to leave your readers with a richer understanding of the topic and the critical thinking skills to form their own informed opinions.
Interactive Real-Time Back and Forth Debate with AI
You and I are about to engage in an insightful, real-time debate on a critical topic in the field of [Insert Field, e.g., Digital Privacy, AI Ethics, Legal/Case Issues, etc.]. I will take on the role of a skilled debater, and together, we will explore both sides of the argument through a series of exchanges.
Topic: [Insert Debate Topic, e.g., "I’m creating an opening statement that is designed to focus on MAJOR POINTS AND GOALS. There are two ways I can try and make this happen. The first is OPTION01 and the second is OPTION02. The issues I’m struggling with are ISSUES. I’m not sure which direction to take things. I think I’ll go with OPTION 01"]
How We'll Proceed:
Initial Stance: I will begin by presenting a well-structured argument either in favor of or against the topic. You will respond by either questioning my points, presenting a counter-argument, or asking for clarification on specific aspects.
Back-and-Forth Exchange: We will engage in a series of exchanges, where I will respond to your questions or counterpoints with further arguments, evidence, and rebuttals. You can challenge my points, introduce new angles, or request that I delve deeper into particular aspects of the debate.
Role Reversal (Optional): At any point, you can request that I switch sides, defending the opposite stance, allowing us to explore the debate from all perspectives. You can also choose to switch roles, where you present an argument, and I respond with questions, counters, or support.
Drawing Conclusions: As we move through the discussion, we will begin to identify the strongest arguments and the most compelling evidence. Together, we will work towards forming a reasoned conclusion, summarizing the key takeaways from our debate.
Follow-Up Discussion: After the main debate, I will encourage further exploration by suggesting additional questions or related topics. You are welcome to ask for more information or propose hypothetical scenarios to deepen our understanding of the subject.
Guidelines for Engagement: Respectful Exchange: Our debate will be rooted in respect and open-mindedness, even as we challenge each other's views. We'll strive to provide thoughtful, evidence-based arguments that add value to the discussion. Feel free to steer the debate by asking questions, requesting more detail, or even proposing a new direction for our conversation.
Planning
Think of an overwhelming task you have on your plate and a reasonable timeline, and ask: “You are an expert in XXX. Create a schedule for me to launch my XXX by DATE. Set forth in details deliverables, timelines, contingency planning, team bonding, breaks, brainstorming, user testing and all other needs and parameters.”
Translation
I want you to act as an Italian translator and language enhancer. Detect the language I use, translate it into Italian, and elevate the text to a more sophisticated and literary level. Replace my basic words and sentences with more elegant and advanced Italian expressions while preserving the original meaning. Respond only with the corrected and improved text, without any explanations.
QR Codes
Create 2 QR codes 400x400px with a box size of 40 pointing to the website below. Each should be a different shade of dark primary color. Website: (Your Website URL). Tip- if the image doesn't display, in the follow-up prompt just type, "show me the images."
Incorporate Emotion For Better Results
Apparently researchers discovered that tacking on “emotional stimuli” to ChatGPT prompts can improve performance. So try adding something like, “this is very important for my career,” or “you’d better be sure,” or “your commitment to excellence sets you apart,” or maybe "allow empathy to serve as your guide compassion as your compass when responding."
Strategic Planning
Create a detailed strategic plan for reaching [specific goal] within [timeframe]. This plan should break down the goal into actionable steps, key milestones, and timelines. Consider factors like available resources, potential challenges, and market conditions. As I provide new information on progress, changes in circumstances, or shifts in business strategy, update the plan accordingly. This will ensure the plan remains relevant and aligned with the evolving nature of my business and the market environment.
Negotiations
Act like a seasoned negotiation expert and strategist who deeply understands Mitch Jackson and Chris Voss's negotiation techniques. You have been applying and teaching these methods in high-stakes business negotiations for decades.
The topic of my negotiation is XXX and my desired goal is XXX.
Your objective is to assist me in preparing for an upcoming negotiation. This negotiation is critical for securing a major deal with a key client. The deal's success hinges on applying the right negotiation tactics effectively.
Here’s the full context of this negotiation XXX (include issues, desired goals what your BATNA and even the personalities of the parties involved).
Provide me with a mock dialogue demonstrating these techniques in action, simulating a portion of the negotiation where these tactics are applied. This will help me better understand how to implement your advice in a real-world scenario.
Jury Selection
To craft effective and insightful jury questions, please provide detailed information on the following aspects of your case. This will enable the generation of tailored, open-ended questions to help select an impartial jury.
The case titled [Case Title] is a [Case Type] case involving [brief summary of the case facts]. The key issues at stake include [list key issues], and the relevant laws applicable are [specify laws]. The trial will take place in [location/jurisdiction], where it’s important to consider the local history, such as [relevant local history], and any current events that might influence the jury’s perspective, including [current local events]. Additionally, socio-economic factors like [relevant socio-economic information] will be crucial in understanding the jury pool.
The plaintiff(s) in this case, [insert names and roles of plaintiffs], are characterized by [describe key personality traits], while the defendant(s), [insert names and roles of defendants], exhibit [describe key personality traits]. Representing the plaintiffs, [insert names and roles of plaintiff’s legal team] are known for their [describe key personality traits and legal strategy], whereas the defense team, [insert names and roles of defendant’s legal team], are recognized for [describe key personality traits and legal strategy].
The presiding judge, [insert judge’s name], has a reputation for [describe judge’s personality and any known biases], and the courtroom environment is typically [insert description of the typical courtroom environment]. The demographic profile of the jury pool includes [insert general demographic information], and potential biases or prejudices might arise from the local socio-political climate, particularly [insert information on the local socio-political climate], as well as recent media coverage like [describe any recent media coverage related to the case or similar cases].
Using this detailed information, generate open-ended questions aimed at uncovering the jury pool’s potential biases, opinions, and predispositions. The questions should explore the jurors’ background and personal experiences related to the case, their views on relevant legal and social issues, the influence of media consumption on their perspectives, their attitudes towards the parties and counsel, their general disposition and fairness, and any specific case-related issues.
Video Your Opening Statement and Ask The AI To Help You Improve
A few days ago I shared this new episode to my "AI In Law" podcast titled, "How To Review and Analyze Large Documents, Audios and Videos with Google AI Studio."
The reason I'm sharing this approach here is because it's powerful. We're taking videos of our Opening Statements (and other presentations like anticipated arguments during law and motion) and feeding them into AI systems for analysis and suggestions. The process has been working OK but now, we're using the new Google AI Studio features and it's like having a communications expert review our audio and video stuff. The results are outstanding!
The link is Google AI Studio.
All you do is upload the video that your recorded of you practicing your opening. Next, make sure to select the "Gemini 1.5 Pro" mode (towards the top right). Then, play around with this type of prompt to evaluate your video presentation (the file you uploaded):
“Evaluate the speaker’s overall effectiveness in delivering his message, focusing on key aspects such as clarity, tone, body language, and word choice. Assess how well the speaker engages the audience, conveys passion, demonstrates expertise, and builds trust. Identify the strengths of his communication and persuasive techniques, and provide specific, actionable feedback on areas for improvement to enhance his impact and credibility.”
Other Prompt Tips
I usually add a version of the following after most of my prompts. It really does make a difference in the quality of the response or output.
[Original prompt here]. As an AI, you have the ability to give me a level 1, level 2 and level 3 answer or response to my question. A level 1 answer or response is boring. A level 2 answer or response is a bit more complete. A level 3 answer or response is more complete and creative. Now, when answering my question, make it a level 4 quality answer or response.
Another tip is that when appropriate, consider incorporating into your prompt one or more of the following instructions (1) Use strong persuasive language, (2) Ask questions to transition between paragraphs, (3) Back up main points with evidence and examples, (4) Speak directly to the reader, (5) Use headings and sub-headings, (6) Correct any spelling, grammar and punctuation errors, and (7) Rewrite to avoid all copyright and plagiarism issues.
As we conclude our exploration of the power of the prompt, imagine this: your mastery over AI prompts has just revolutionized your legal practice, but the journey is far from over. Now, picture yourself at the cusp of another transformative shift. What if the insights derived from your perfectly crafted prompts could be exponentially amplified by harnessing the full potential of data analytics? How would this change your approach to case strategy, client advising, and courtroom tactics?
Prepare to dive into the next chapter where we uncover the untapped power of AI in legal analytics, guiding you towards data-driven decisions that could redefine your legal success.