Prompt Engineering: Insights from a Software Developer

Are you ready to harness prompt engineering with generative AI? In the latest episode of Stories from the Hackery, we explore what makes a good prompt with Ryan Bishop, a software developer and graduate of Web Development Cohort 36, who’s turned generative AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot into his ultimate productivity partner. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to inspire and empower you.

Ryan recounts his journey from being intrigued by technology to becoming a software developer. Reflecting on his unexpected career path, Ryan explains, "At my core, I love a challenge. I love being able to stare at a problem almost until your eyes cross." His adaptability and problem-solving mindset have positioned him well to explore the potential of generative AI as a software developer.

Crafting effective prompts has been key to his success with generative AI. "You have to talk to the computer," Ryan explains. "It's like having a conversation with a coworker, where refining and clarifying leads to better outcomes." Context is everything. He highlights how understanding and providing the right context in your prompts can elevate AI-generated outputs. Whether it’s for coding, project management, or brainstorming, context shapes the relevance and accuracy of what AI delivers. “The more you engage with it, the more adaptable and precise your results become,” he shares.

For those new to prompt engineering, Ryan’s advice is simple: experiment and iterate. Much like software development, it’s about testing your ideas, learning from feedback, and refining your approach. Looking ahead, Ryan envisions that prompt engineering will become an intuitive part of every developer’s toolkit, unlocking endless creative possibilities.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation on Stories from the Hackery! Stream it now on Soundcloud or your favorite platform and discover how prompt engineering could transform your approach to AI.