Write Better AI Prompts with RISEN Framework

Ever typed a prompt into ChatGPT or Copilot and got something… underwhelming? You’re not alone. Generic prompts often lead to generic outputs — vague, off-target, or just plain dull. That’s where structure matters. And RISEN helps you get it right.

What is RISEN?

RISEN is a simple framework for writing clearer, more effective prompts. It stands for:

• Role
• Instructions
• Steps
• End goal
• Narrowing

Think of AI as a tool — like a chisel. It’s only as good as the hand that guides it. And like cooking, better ingredients (your prompt) lead to better results (your output). RISEN helps you shape your prompt with purpose, clarity and direction.

R — Role

Purpose: Tell the AI who to be. Example: Act as a senior content strategist.

I — Instructions

Purpose: Explain what you want it to do. Example: Write a blog post introducing the RISEN framework.

S — Steps

Purpose: Outline how to do it. Example: Follow this structure: hook, overview, examples, template, pitfalls, CTA.

E — End goal

Purpose: Say what success looks like. Example: Help beginners write clearer prompts and get better results.

N — Narrowing

Purpose: Add constraints to keep it focused. Example: Use UK spelling, plain English, short paragraphs, and a friendly tone.

Before & After Example

Before: Write a blog article about golf.

After: Act as a sports journalist. Write a blog post about the rise of youth golf in the UK. Include 3 player profiles, recent tournament stats, and a short conclusion. Use plain English and keep it under 800 words.

Why it works: The AFTER prompt gives the AI a clear role, purpose, structure, and boundaries. It’s like handing over a recipe instead of just saying “make dinner”. You’ll get something more relevant, readable and useful — first time.

RISEN Template (Copy & Paste)

Act as a [ROLE]. [INSTRUCTIONS for the task]. [INSTRUCTIONS for the task]. Follow these steps: [STEPS]. The goal is to [END GOAL]. Keep in mind: [NARROWING constraints].

Use this template for writing, planning, summarising, brainstorming — anything. Just fill in the brackets.

Common Pitfalls RISEN Helps Avoid

• Vagueness: Without a role or goal, AI guesses — and often gets it wrong.
• Meandering structure: Steps give it a path to follow.
• Unclear success criteria: End goals define what “good” looks like.
• Off tone or too long: Narrowing keeps it on-brand and on-length.

Why It Matters for Leaders

Clear prompting isn’t just for techies. For executives, strategists and managers, RISEN is a productivity skill. It helps teams:

• Get consistent, high-quality outputs from AI assistants.
• Save time on reports, workshops, and planning documents.
• Scale AI use responsibly by keeping outputs structured and on-brand.

In other words: prompt literacy is quickly becoming a core skill for digital leadership.

👉 Want to see how structured AI use can transform your business? Learn more about AI Applicability.

Try RISEN on Your Next Task

Whether you're writing a report, planning a workshop, or drafting an email — RISEN helps you get closer to your intent, faster. Give it a go and see the difference.