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What is Prompt engineering?

Updated July 21, 2026 · by Pedro

Prompt engineering is writing instructions that reliably steer AI models. For coding tools, that means exact values, named states, and hard constraints instead of vague wishes.

Why does this term matter for AI prompts?

Precise vocabulary reduces vague instructions. When you name prompt engineering correctly in a brief, Claude, Cursor, and GPT spend fewer tokens guessing. Pair definitions with structure on AI prompt builder and cost math on prompt token cost.

More glossary terms

Full list: prompt engineering glossary.

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