Basic · module 33 of 100
System prompt versus user prompt
Understand the difference between fixed instructions and your own question.
After this lesson
You can separate a fixed instruction (system) from a specific task (user).
In view · How it connects
Two types of instructions
For example: use plain language and do not invent missing facts.
For example: rewrite this fictional invitation in 90 words.
Check whether the answer fits the task and the applicable instructions.
Part 1 of 3 · Fixed instruction
Your preference for less movement is on. Choose each part yourself.
System prompt
This is the fixed role or agreement that applies to the entire conversation. For example: “You are a down-to-earth assistant who never invents facts.”
User prompt
This is your concrete question or task for this moment. For example: “Write a short summary of these notes.”
Why separate them?
This keeps the tone and boundaries consistent, while you change the content per task.
New practice example
From explanation to a usable result.
Fixed instructions describe your way of working; the user message provides the concrete task and source.
Fictional practice situationA fictitious customer service desk always wants to respond politely without inventing delivery times. Today, a customer is asking about a package of which it is only known that it is being processed.
View a possible solution
This is how it can be done
Fixed agreement: write politely, use only the provided facts, and mention uncertainty. Task message: create a two-sentence response; the order is being processed, the shipping date is unknown.
Why this works
The task gets its own facts. A fixed role or instruction is not access to the order administration and is no guarantee that the answer is correct.
Make it slightly more difficult
Replace the order with a question about opening hours. Which fixed instructions can you retain and which source must you renew?
Extra practice, at your own pace. You do not need to submit anything. This does not count towards an automatic assessment.
Your workplace · learning by doing
Make something. See what changes.
Checking the AI connection… You can already view the written example.
Present your assignment to Ende.
Read the answer, change one thing, and compare.
Previously held
New version
You remain in control
What do you want to improve in your next attempt?
On this device only. AI answers remain only in this page memory. This is self-review, not a grade.
Why this approach works
The task gets its own facts. A fixed role or instruction is not access to the order administration and is no guarantee that the answer is correct.
A step further
Replace the order with a question about opening hours. Which fixed instructions can you retain and which source must you renew?
Try & discover · no obligation
Combine fixed agreements with your concrete task
Compare fixed instructions with your question for this task. Which facts must you provide again every time?
Fixed appointments
Use ordinary language. Do not invent missing facts.
Request for this task
Write a friendly customer email about changed opening hours.
Not yet explicitly provided: context and source facts, format and target audience, boundaries and control.
This trial works locally with fictitious data and does not count towards your lesson completion. It starts anew with a new lesson or reload.
A prompt to get you started
System: You are an assistant that only answers based on the provided text and indicates missing info. User: Summarise these three points in two sentences. Points: [points].
Apply it
You are building an assistant for follow-up emails. Tone and boundaries remain the same; the talking points change per customer.
Which approach best fits this situation?
- Save fixed boundaries as an instruction and provide the talking points per task.
- Let a provided document replace the fixed boundaries.
- Permanently add all new talking points to the fixed instruction.
With JavaScript, you can check your approach and receive immediate feedback.
Test your insight
What is the difference between a system prompt and a user prompt?
- There is no difference.
- System is the fixed agreement, user is the concrete task of this moment.
- User is always more important.
Extra practice
Write a short system instruction (tone + boundaries) and a user task for a recurring task of yours.
System: Answer briefly, professionally and do not invent prices. User: Write a follow-up email after an introductory meeting.
