One of the biggest complaints about ChatGPT-5 is that users have been frustrated by vague and underwhelming responses. Users with a ChatGPT Plus account can go back to the legacy model ChatGPT-4o, and get the responses they’re used to, but those on the free tier may still find themselves searching for smarter and more useful responses than the default replies.
Luckily, the “3-word-rule” is a simple trick that actually works better with ChatGPT-5. The idea is to add three words that define the perspective you want so the AI gives precise, more human and often a more insightful response.
How the 3-word rule works in ChatGPT-5
The secret to the 3-word rule is that it forces ChatGPT-5 to step into a role. Instead of giving you a generic, one-size-fits-all answer, it delivers a more personal response to match the kind of guidance you really need.
The 3-word rule takes the guess work out with extra context that changes everything. From tone to structure and depth, your reply will be far more useful than ever.
Prompts to try
Like a teacher
Prompt:“Explain the basics of Python programming like a teacher, breaking it down into simple lessons I can follow step by step.”
This prompt makes ChatGPT-5 explain concepts step-by-step, breaking them down into bullet points or even into bite-sized lessons. It’s a great way to learn new skills from coding basics to math concepts.
Like a therapist
Prompt: “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed at work — give me strategies to manage stress like a therapist, with a calm and empathetic approach.”
Although ChatGPT is no replacement for a human therapist, using this prompt can help shift the response from the AI into a calm, empathetic tone. You’ll get the response you’re looking for that gently reframes your problem with supportive language that feels more personal than a standard list of tips.
Like a coach
Prompt: “Help me train for my first 5K run like a coach, with encouragement, a clear weekly plan, and motivational advice.”
This prompt turns ChatGPT-5 into a motivator. While this example showcases it in the more traditional sense, you could also use it beyond physical fitness as a life coach, wellness coach, parenting coach (it really works!). So instead of telling you what to do, it pushes you with encouragement, goal-setting frameworks and action-oriented advice.
Like a lawyer
Prompt: “Summarize this contract like a lawyer, highlighting the key obligations, risks, and clauses I should pay attention to in plain language.”
Again, there is no replacement for the real deal, but in a pinch, ChatGPT can come to the rescue when summarizing difficult-to-understand documents and legal jargon. If you don’t have access to a lawyer, this is one way to feel like you aren’t in the dark about certain legal situations.
Like a nutritionist
Prompt: “Give me a week of healthy meal ideas like a nutritionist, focusing on balanced nutrition, affordable ingredients, and easy prep for a busy lifestyle.”
Hiring a professional nutritionist might be something you end up doing anyway, but using this prompt when you’re thinking about getting serious about your nutrition can help you get started on the right track.
Like a project manager
Prompt: “Help me organize my tasks for the week like a project manager, with clear priorities, deadlines and a simple system I can stick to.”
If you’ve ever felt like you just need a little boost to get organized, lean on ChatGPT with this prompt. Whatever tasks you’re working on, either at home or professionally, ChatGPT can help clear the way for a solid plan that makes hitting your goals a little easier.
Rewrite my resume like a recruiter
Prompt: “Rewrite my resume like a recruiter, emphasizing my most valuable skills, aligning with job descriptions, and making it ATS-friendly.”
Tackle the job search more efficiently by using this prompt to help stand out. Just upload your resume and let ChatGPT guide you to make your skills and experience shine.
Final thoughts
If you think this prompt trick seems too simple to be useful, think again. You don’t always need long and complicated prompts. Sometimes just a powerful tone shift can make all the difference between one that feels flat and one that feels like it came from a trusted expert.
With ChatGPT-5’s improved reasoning, the 3-word rule has become even more effective, giving you the ability to shape the personality of the assistant with just three words.
More from Tom's Guide
- I found ChatGPT-5's biggest blind spot — my workaround is embarrisingly simple
- I tested ChatGPT-5 vs Gemini 2.5 Pro with 5 coding prompts — here's the winner
- 9 ChatGPT-5 prompts that will instantly boost your productivity
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