A · StructureIntermediate35 min read
4. Few-shot examples & negative constraints
Prompt Engineering · 48 pages source format
Show 1–3 input→output examples for the pattern you want. Also say what NOT to do — models respond well to explicit boundaries.
What you'll learn
- Few-shot prompting
- Negative constraints
- Edge case examples
Build a 3-example set
Pick a repetitive task (bug titles, test case names, commit messages). Write 3 gold examples.
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Prompt with examples. Compare output quality vs zero-shot.
Clear?
Add "do not" rules
"Do not invent features. Do not use passive voice. Do not exceed 100 words."
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Add 3 negative constraints to a prompt. Measure violation rate on 5 runs.
Clear?