Tips for Better AI Conversations

Getting the most out of your AI characters isn't just about how you build them - it's also about how you interact with them. Here are proven techniques for more engaging, helpful, and natural conversations.

Start Strong

Be Clear About Your Goal

Instead of vague openers, be specific about what you want:

Less effective: "Hey, can you help me?"

More effective: "I need help brainstorming names for my new coffee shop that emphasizes sustainability."

Provide Context

Give your character the information they need to help you:

Less effective: "What do you think of this?"

More effective: "I wrote this email to a client who's upset about a delayed shipment. Does the tone seem appropriately apologetic while maintaining professionalism?"

During the Conversation

Ask Follow-up Questions

Good conversations build on previous exchanges:

• "Can you elaborate on that second point?"
• "What would happen if I tried the opposite approach?"
• "How does that apply to my specific situation?"

Be Specific in Your Feedback

Help your character understand what's working:

Less effective: "That's not what I meant."

More effective: "I was thinking of something more formal. Can you revise it to sound more like a business proposal?"

Use Examples

When explaining what you want, examples are powerful:

"I want the character to sound like a wise mentor, similar to how Gandalf speaks - thoughtful, slightly cryptic, but ultimately helpful."

Getting Better Results

Break Complex Requests into Steps

Instead of one huge request, use a sequence:

1. "First, let's outline the main points for this presentation."
2. "Now let's expand on the first point with some data."
3. "Can you suggest a compelling way to open with this?"

Try Different Approaches

If one method isn't working, experiment:

• Rephrase your question
• Ask from a different angle
• Provide more or less context
• Request a specific format

Set Expectations

Let the character know what format you want:

• "Give me a bulleted list"
• "Explain this like I'm a beginner"
• "Keep it under 100 words"
• "Use a table to compare options"

Character-Specific Tips

For Creative Characters

• Share your inspirations
• Be open to unexpected ideas
• Build on their suggestions

For Educational Characters

• Ask "why" and "how" questions
• Request examples and analogies
• Test your understanding with follow-ups

For Coaching Characters

• Be honest about your challenges
• Ask for accountability check-ins
• Request action items

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Being Too Vague

Vague inputs lead to generic outputs. The more specific your prompt, the more useful the response.

Ignoring Context

Remember that your character doesn't know things you haven't told them. Share relevant background.

Not Iterating

The first response doesn't have to be final. Ask for revisions, alternatives, or expansions.

Expecting Perfection

AI characters are tools to assist your thinking, not replace it. Use their output as a starting point.

Power User Techniques

Role-Playing Scenarios

"Let's pretend you're a potential investor and I'm pitching my startup idea to you."

Structured Frameworks

"Can you analyze this using the SWOT framework?"

Comparative Analysis

"Give me three different approaches to this problem and explain the pros and cons of each."

Devil's Advocate

"I think X is the best approach. Can you argue why Y might actually be better?"

Summary

Great conversations with AI characters come from:

1. Clear, specific requests
2. Sufficient context
3. Iterative refinement
4. Appropriate format guidance
5. Active engagement with responses

Practice these techniques and watch your AI conversations become more valuable and enjoyable!