Let’s make AI prompting simple. You might be looking at prompt engineering frameworks thinking they’re too technical or complicated. But, you know what? These frameworks are just like recipes. They give you a reliable way to get the results you want from AI, every single time.

I’ve spent countless hours testing different prompting methods and if there is one thing I’ve learned, it is that you don’t need to overthink it. You need a simple, repeatable process that works.

The CRAP framework (yes, that’s really what it’s called!) is perfect for beginners. Think of it as your basic recipe with just four ingredients:

• Context: Tell the AI what it needs to know about your situation. “I run a small marketing agency with three team members.”
• Role: Give the AI its job description. “Act as an experienced marketing strategist.”
• Action: What do you want it to do? “Create a monthly content calendar.”
• Parameters: Set your specific needs. “Focus on LinkedIn posts, include engagement tips, and format as a spreadsheet.”

Mix these ingredients together, and you’ve got a clear prompt that gets results. No technical jargon needed.

But what makes this approach so effective? It takes the guesswork out of the equation. Instead of staring at a blank prompt box wondering what to write, you’re following a simple checklist.

Let’s look at how this works in real life. Say you need to write email newsletters. Here’s your framework in action:

• Context: “I’m a family photographer in Seattle specializing in outdoor portraits. I send weekly newsletters to 500+ clients who’ve booked with me in the past 2 years. My brand voice is casual and personal. Spring mini-sessions are my most popular offering, typically booking out within 48 hours.”
• Role: “You’re an email marketing specialist who writes engaging newsletters for photographers. You understand seasonal photography promotions and how to create urgency without being pushy.”
• Action: “Write a newsletter announcing my spring mini-sessions happening April 13-14 at Kerry Park, featuring cherry blossoms. Sessions are 20 minutes, include 10 digital images, and cost $275. I have 12 slots available.”
• Parameters: “Keep it warm and friendly, 200 words max, with a clear call to action to book through my scheduling link. Include one sentence about bringing props like bubbles or kites for kids. Mention my rain-date policy. Add a PS note reminding them about my referral program ($50 off their next session when they refer a friend).”

See how each part builds on the last? You’re giving the AI everything it needs to create something useful for your business.

The best part about starting with a simple framework is that it builds your confidence. Each time you use it, you’ll get a better feel for what works. You’ll start to notice patterns in the AI’s responses and naturally adjust your prompts to get better results.

Don’t feel pressured to master every framework out there. Start with CRAP (still makes me smile every time), get comfortable with it, and let it become second nature. Your prompts will improve, your results will get better, and you’ll save time on every task you handle.