Is keeping a consistent article structure when writing with AI too difficult? Not anymore!

When it comes to content writing, GPT and Gemini excel at how they write but the structure is oftentimes not optimal. Let's explore how to use our own structures in any article.

Writing articles on specific topics with AI is easy but writing it with a specific structure is more difficult. By combining prompt leading with delimiters we can create specific article structures. Structuring is important for SEO and readability purposes but also to keep the specific voice of a brand.

Business

SnowKing is a startup based in Colorado making intelligent snowboards to revolutionize how customers choose, test, and purchase Bluetooth-connected snowboards.

A quick prompt to start writing would be something like this:

You are the owner of SnowKing, a snowboard manufacturer. You role is to write content for the blog. Write a short introduction to a blog post that compares snowboards.

And the output:

As the owner of SnowKing, the passion and excitement we share for snowboarding run as deep as the freshest powder on a perfect slope. It's that exhilarating feeling of carving through the snow, feeling the chill on your face, and the world seeming to stand still as you glide that drives our commitment to crafting the finest snowboards. In our journey, we've always understood that choosing the right board can be as crucial to your experience on the mountain as the snow itself.
...

The text follows the obvious AI pattern, it’s a little verbose and could fix it with more prompting but we won’t. Let’s apply a different strategy and learn from the winners.

Strategy

Instead of writing what we think about, let’s combine a few well-ranked articles into a single one without copying the content and just using the structure. The goal is to rank against competitors by using the same keywords in innovative ways.

Google “snowboard blog” and choose 3 articles

• https://www.burton.com/blogs/the-burton-blog/culture-shifters-2024/

• https://neversummer.com/blogs/snowboarding/tips-and-tricks-to-filming-snowboarding-with-an-iphone

• https://www.checkyeti.com/blog/en/skiing-vs-snowboarding

A winning structure in a blog post is:

1. introduction

2. a top question

3. showing the value

4. listing the benefits

5. another top question

6. quote from an expert

7. pros and cons

8. list of competitors

9. general benefits to health

10. conclusion

Prompt instruction

We structure the prompt in a easy to read format optimized for reusability. Let’s give it some context

Company name: Snow King
Tone of voice: friendly
Audience: beginners
Theme: snowboards


Rewrite:

With a few short instruction we give a bit of context before starting the chapters.

Prompt introduction

Instead of telling the LLM to generate an introduction we can use the technique called “leading” to point it in the right direction. Leading is a way where you can start a sentence and have the AI continue a specific idea. I will copy the intro from the checkyeti article and have it continued in a different way.

Here’s the original introduction:

As a beginner, I often find myself asking the same question over and over: skiing or snowboarding, which one is easier? This recurring curiosity led me to ask around my closest friends, family, and work colleagues. However, no answer seemed to convince me. That’s when I decided to take it upon myself to determine which one was the ultimate snow sport.

Introduction:

As a beginner, <ask yourself a question>. My curiosity <where did the curiosity take you>. However,<reflect on why not>. That’s when I decided to take it upon myself <understand if I like it>

• any content between <> will be picked up as an instruction with a content

• the text before every < bracket will be the leading idea to generate

Output:

As a newcomer to the world of snowboarding, I pondered, "What does it truly feel like to glide on snow?" This sense of wonder led me down a path of eager exploration and learning about the sport. Yet, despite my enthusiasm, I realized I hadn't actually experienced the thrill and challenges of snowboarding firsthand. That moment of reflection prompted me to embark on a personal journey to discover whether snowboarding was indeed the adventure I was seeking.

---

Great. Now let’s move to the next paragraph where we answer a popular question. To find what questions to ask, search for the main keyword, in this case “snowboard blog” and pick questions from also asked. If you don’t find the “also asked” section use something like “what is snowboard”

Google’s answer to the question:

Snowboarding is a winter sport that involves descending a slope that is covered with snow while standing on a board attached to a rider's feet, using a special boot set onto a mounted binding. The development of snowboarding was inspired by skateboarding, sledding, surfing and skiing.

A top question

What is snowboarding?
Snowboarding is <describe snowboarding>. The development of snowboarding <how was it invented>. Most snowboarders <what do most snowboarders do>

Output:

What is snowboarding, you ask? Snowboarding is a thrilling winter sport that involves descending snow-covered slopes standing on a snowboard attached to a rider's feet, using a specialized boot set onto a mounted binding. The invention of snowboarding was inspired by a blend of skateboarding, sledding, surfing, and skiing, evolving into the dynamic sport we know today in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Most snowboarders hit the slopes seeking adventure, excitement, and the unique freedom that comes with gliding across the snow. Whether it's carving down groomed trails, tackling backcountry powder, or performing tricks in the terrain park, snowboarding offers something for everyone with a passion for winter sports.

Focusing on a popular question from Google increases the chances of your article getting listed as also asked. Using a leading technique focuses on the ideas that should be presented in this part of the content.

Showing the value

Original text to use an inspiration from another article:

For beginners, skiing will come more naturally, since you can move both legs independently, giving you a better body position with your feet facing forward. Your body is facing forward in the direction that you want to go, so your first moves will come more intuitively. Additionally, some basic skiing techniques, like the Snow Plough, can get you through the first days on the easy slopes without getting discouraged. 

Another important consideration to bear in mind is your fitness condition. One thing is for sure: you will burn calories by doing both. However, beginners can get tired faster when snowboarding rather than skiing. Essentially, you will do a push-up every time you fall off your board. Skiing also takes muscle strength, but since you won’t fall down as often, it is more likely you won’t run out of breath.

Prompt:

For beginners, <compare it to skiing>. Your body <describe the position in skiing>. Additionally, <list the 3 basic techniques>

Another important consideration <what makes a good snowboarder> One thing is for sure: <list 3 benefits versus skiing>. Skiing also <is skiing or snowboarding harder>

Output:

If you're just starting out and familiar with skiing, think of snowboarding as skiing's cool cousin. In skiing, your body is upright and you face forward, with each foot strapped to its own ski. In contrast, snowboarding involves standing sideways on a single board, which can feel a bit like surfing on snow!

As for the basics, there are three key techniques you'll learn in snowboarding:

1. Stopping – This is crucial for controlling your speed and avoiding obstacles.

2. Turning – Helps you navigate the slopes and change directions smoothly.

3. Falling safely – Because everyone falls at first, learning to do it safely can save you from injury.

Another important aspect to consider is what makes a good snowboarder. It's not just about mastering techniques; it's also about understanding the mountain and adapting to different snow conditions.

When comparing snowboarding to skiing, there are a few benefits to consider:

1. Snowboarding boots are more comfortable – They're softer and less rigid than ski boots, making them easier to walk in.

2. A sense of unity – Since both feet are on one board, some find that snowboarding offers a greater sense of control and unity with the board.

3. Culture and style – Snowboarding has a unique culture and style that's dynamic and youthful.

Is snowboarding harder than skiing? It's a common debate. Initially, snowboarding can be more challenging because balancing on a single board is tricky. However, once you get the hang of it, many find that progressing in snowboarding can be faster and more intuitive. Whether you choose to ski or snowboard, the most important thing is to have fun and stay safe on the slopes!

Listing the benefits

Lists are easier to understand and helps readers who are just browsing understand more easily why they should continue reading. A simple technique to generate a list is to use the < marker and a loop.

Prompt:

<loop 5 times>
- <one sentence benefit>
<end>

Output:

Sure, I'll craft some beginner-friendly, inviting sentences about the benefits of choosing Snow King for their snowboard needs, focusing on the theme of snowboards. Here we go:

1. Glide down the slopes with ease and style, thanks to Snow King's ultra-smooth and responsive snowboards.

2. Experience unmatched comfort and control on the snow, making every ride with a Snow King snowboard an unforgettable adventure.

3. With Snow King's innovative board designs, you'll find improving your skills and tackling new challenges more exciting than ever.

4. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with durable, high-quality snowboards from Snow King, designed to last season after season.

5. Join the Snow King family and connect with a supportive community of beginners and pros alike, all sharing a passion for the thrill of snowboarding.

Ok, we need something more focused that also start referencing our product:

<loop 5 times>
- <1 sentence benefit; focus on our product; talk about the health advantage>
<end>

Output:

Sure, I'd love to help you with that! Let's make it sound inviting and easy to understand for everyone, especially those who might be new to snowboarding. Here we go:

1. "Dive into a healthier lifestyle with Snow King snowboards, where every ride boosts your heart health and keeps you in top shape."

2. "Embrace the joy of snowboarding with Snow King, and discover how it strengthens your muscles and enhances your overall well-being."

3. "Snow King snowboards are your gateway to not just thrilling adventures, but also to improving your balance and coordination, contributing to a healthier you."

4. "Feel the rush of fresh air and the excitement of the slopes, all while giving your body a fantastic workout, thanks to Snow King snowboards."

5. "Join the Snow King family to experience how snowboarding can not only uplift your spirits but also significantly boost your physical health, one ride at a time."

Nice.

Another top question

Go to google and search for “benefits of snowboarding”

The question we want to answer is “Why snowboarding is good for mental health?”

Prompt:

Studies have shown exercise improves <describe the health benefits>. Like most exercise, <compare to other snow sports>. <Reference mental health advantages>

Output:

Research has found that getting active can bring about a host of health benefits, from boosting your heart health to improving your sleep patterns. Snowboarding, much like other snow sports, offers a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy these benefits, but with the added thrill of gliding down snowy slopes. Moreover, it's not just your body that gets a lift; hitting the slopes can also have a positive impact on your mental well-being, offering a sense of freedom and stress relief that's hard to find elsewhere.

The output is too different than my initial prompt, so I’m going to make a change. Instead of using “Rewrite” I will say “Continue writing:”

Prompt:

Company name: Snow King
Tone of voice: friendly
Audience: beginners
Theme: snowboards


Continue writing:

Studies have shown exercise improves <describe the health benefits>. Like most exercise, <compare to other snow sports>. The mental health advantages are <3 mental health advantages; one sentence>

Output:

Studies have shown exercise improves overall health by enhancing cardiovascular fitness, increasing muscle strength, and boosting the immune system. Like most exercise, snowboarding stands out among snow sports for its blend of agility, balance, and endurance training, offering a unique alternative to skiing with its dynamic movements and requirement for quick reflexes. The mental health advantages of snowboarding are significant; it helps reduce stress and anxiety through the exhilarating experience of gliding down slopes, promotes a sense of accomplishment as you master new skills, and fosters a connection with nature, which has been shown to have therapeutic effects on the mind. Whether you're carving down a mountain or learning to navigate your first bunny hill, snowboarding offers a rewarding and invigorating experience for beginners and experts alike. So, why not grab a board from Snow King and experience the joy and health benefits of snowboarding for yourself?

In conclusion, mastering the art of "leading" in prompting is both an art and a science. It's about guiding your AI or conversation partner towards generating responses that are not just accurate, but also insightful and engaging. To achieve this, prompts should be crafted thoughtfully, with a clear understanding of the desired outcome and the nuances of language that can influence the direction of the conversation. This requires a balance of specificity and openness, allowing for creative and unexpected responses while still steering the conversation towards a particular goal.

Continued in Part 2: Coming soon

1. quote from an expert

2. pros and cons

3. list of competitors

4. general benefits to health

5. conclusion