Unlike search engines that find links, AI generates direct answers. Better AI questioning involves using open-ended prompts for analysis, closed-ended prompts for facts, and never being afraid to push back when an answer feels off.
AI is not a search engine
When you use Google, you're looking for a source. When you use AI, you're looking for a synthesis. This means the way you frame the question is everything.
- Closed questions ("What year was this law passed?") are great for specific, verifiable facts.
- Open questions ("What are the pros and cons of this policy?") invite the AI to show off its analytical pattern-matching.
The art of the pushback
If the AI gives you a response that's too general or just feels "off," don't just close the tab. Models respond to redirection. Tell it: "That's too technical, explain it like I'm five," or "Give me a specific example." If the conversation gets too messy, start a new chat. Sometimes the AI gets stuck in its own context loop and needs a fresh start.