Templates save time when they encode decisions you already made: tone, format, and quality bar. Below are patterns you can adapt across ChatGPT, Claude, and similar tools.

Executive summary

Template: "Summarize the text below for a busy [role]. Output: 3 bullets (key point + implication), 1 risk, 1 recommended action. Max 120 words. Text: [paste]"

Support reply

Template: "Draft a reply to this customer message. Tone: calm, helpful, not defensive. Acknowledge issue, explain next step, ask one clarifying question if needed. Message: [paste]"

Content brief

Template: "Create a brief for a [format] about [topic]. Audience: [who]. Goal: [goal]. Include: headline options (5), outline, SEO questions to answer, CTA. Constraints: [words to avoid]."

Competitive snapshot

Template: "Compare [Product A] vs [Product B] for [use case]. Table columns: feature, winner, notes. End with who each product is best for. Flag unknowns instead of guessing."

How to maintain a library

  • Version templates when models change behavior
  • Store successful runs as few-shot examples
  • Tag by team function, not just tool
  • Review quarterly — stale templates create stale output