What The Tech: Getting better advice from AI
BY JAMEY TUCKER, Consumer Tech Reporter
Most of us use AI the same way.
We open ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, or another AI assistant, type a question, and wait for an answer.
Where should I go on vacation? Which laptop should I buy? How can I create a budget to save money?
It works, but there’s a simple trick that can dramatically improve the advice you get.
Don’t Ask for an Answer Right Away
Instead of asking AI to immediately solve your problem, ask it to interview you first. For example, instead of typing: “What’s the best laptop for me?”
Try this instead:
“You’re my computer expert. Don’t answer yet. Ask me whatever questions
you need before making a recommendation.” The conversation changes immediately. Instead of guessing what you need, AI starts asking questions much like a knowledgeable salesperson would:
● What will you use the computer for?
● What’s your budget?
● Do you travel often?
● Is battery life important?
● Do you edit photos or videos?
By the time AI makes a recommendation, it knows much more about your needs, so the advice is far more personalized.
It Works for Almost Anything
The same approach works well for many everyday decisions.
Planning a vacation?
Try this prompt:
“You’re an experienced travel agent. Don’t recommend anything yet. First, ask
me whatever questions you need to build the perfect itinerary.”
Looking for financial guidance? Tell AI:
“You’re my financial coach. Before giving advice, ask me questions about my
goals, spending, and priorities.”
Need help polishing a report or email?
Start with: “You’re my editor. Ask me any questions you need before suggesting changes.”
Why This Works:
Better answers come from better information.
It’s the same reason your doctor asks questions before making a diagnosis or a financial advisor learns about your goals before offering recommendations.
AI can’t read your mind. The more context you give it, the more useful its responses become.
Give It a Try
The next time you open your favorite AI assistant, resist the urge to ask for an immediate answer.
Instead, tell it not to answer yet. Ask it to interview you first.
You may be surprised how much better the advice becomes.
