Getting output you can use.
WHAT TO SPECIFY
Prose, bullets, numbered steps, or a table Length, in words or paragraphs Headings, or none Order
WHY IT MATTERS
Without instruction, you get the model's default, which tends toward lists and headings whether or not they suit.
FOR PROSE
"Write in continuous prose. No bullet points or headings."
Models default to lists. Say so if you want paragraphs.
FOR TABLES
Specify the columns.
"Return as a table with columns: item, quantity, price, total."
FOR STRUCTURED DATA
State the format precisely and give an example.
That matters particularly if something else will process the output.
FOR LENGTH
"Around 200 words" works better than "short", which is interpreted variably.
FOR ORDER
"Most important first" or "chronological".
THE GENERAL RULE
If the structure matters, state it. The model will not guess correctly.
