When using AI to get the best answers, it’s common to feel like you’re not quite getting the results you want. Maybe the information is a bit off, or it’s not exactly what you were looking for. Here’s a simple yet powerful technique that can drastically improve the accuracy of the answers you get: end every question with the phrase, “ask me questions so you have a clear understanding of what I am looking to accomplish with 95% accuracy.”
Why Does This Work?
AI is a powerful tool, but like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. Often, the reason you don’t get the most accurate results is because the AI doesn’t fully understand the context or details of your request. By inviting the AI to ask you clarifying questions, you enable it to:
• Fill in gaps in its understanding of your request.
• Avoid assumptions that could lead to inaccurate answers.
• Customize responses to better fit your specific needs.
• Save time by getting the right answer on the first try.
How It Works: An Example
Let’s look at how this technique works in practice.
Without the phrase:
• Question: “How do I improve my social media engagement?”
• Answer: The AI might provide generic tips like posting more often, using hashtags, or engaging with followers. This is good information, but it might not be tailored to your specific situation.
With the phrase:
• Question: “How do I improve my social media engagement? Ask me questions so you have a clear understanding of what I am looking to accomplish with 95% accuracy.”
• AI’s Follow-Up Questions:
• “What social media platforms are you focusing on?”
• “What type of audience are you trying to engage with?”
• “Do you prefer organic growth or are you open to paid advertising?”
• “What specific metrics are you looking to improve? (e.g., likes, shares, comments, website clicks)”
• Answer: With this extra context, the AI can provide a much more targeted strategy, such as focusing on short-form videos on TikTok for Gen Z engagement or running carousel ads on Instagram for product awareness.
When Should You Use This Technique?
This technique is especially useful when:
• You’re asking about complex topics or need detailed explanations.
• You’re looking for strategic advice that varies depending on context.
• You want to implement specific actions or solutions.
• You’re not exactly sure what you need but have a general goal in mind.
• You want to save time by avoiding back-and-forth corrections.
Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
1. Be Specific – Use this phrase when asking open-ended questions or when your question could have multiple interpretations.
2. Stay Engaged – Be prepared to answer the follow-up questions with as much detail as possible.
3. Iterate – If the first answer isn’t perfect, refine your question and use the phrase again to get closer to the 95% accuracy you’re looking for.
4. Combine with Context – Provide as much background information as possible before inviting questions. For example: “I’m a digital marketer focusing on B2B SaaS products. How do I improve my social media engagement? Ask me questions so you have a clear understanding of what I am looking to accomplish with 95% accuracy.”
The 95% Accuracy Mindset
The idea of aiming for 95% accuracy is about setting a high standard for the quality of answers you receive. It encourages the AI to clarify uncertainties and confirm its understanding before giving a final answer. This reduces the likelihood of errors and increases the relevance of the information provided.
Final Thoughts: Make AI Work Smarter for You
AI is a powerful assistant, but its effectiveness depends on clear communication. By ending your questions with, “Ask me questions so you have a clear understanding of what I am looking to accomplish with 95% accuracy,” you’re giving the AI the opportunity to fine-tune its understanding, leading to more accurate and actionable answers.
Next time you use AI, give this technique a try and experience the difference in the quality of responses. You’ll likely find that it not only improves the answers but also enhances your overall experience with AI.
Ready to Level Up Your AI Interactions?
Start using this technique today and see how it changes the way you get answers from AI. Whether you’re brainstorming ideas, solving complex problems, or seeking strategic advice, this approach will help you unlock more precise, valuable insights.