> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://knuth-concepts.gitbook.io/generative-ai-prompt-engineering-basics/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://knuth-concepts.gitbook.io/generative-ai-prompt-engineering-basics/what-is-a-prompt.md).

# What is a prompt?

A prompt is what you tell a generative model to get the result you want. Think of it as the command you give to the model.

<figure><img src="https://3003864784-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FOzg5DJNRJGqt6rIOAzXd%2Fuploads%2F3r0A21TvGvYjWo9W49kg%2FDALL%C2%B7E%202024-04-30%2010.58.15%20-%20A%20futuristic%20style%20command%20prompt%20on%20a%20computer%20screen.%20The%20scene%20includes%20a%20sleek%2C%20modern%20keyboard%20with%20backlit%20keys%2C%20a%20high-resolution%20display%20showi.webp?alt=media&amp;token=84b21d3f-074a-41c0-83bd-691ee7bfb0eb" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>