Text & chat prompt
Break a problem down from first principles
Break a problem down from first principles: a free, copy-paste prompt for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste the prompt and replace each [BRACKETED] field with your own details.
The prompt
Help me think about [PROBLEM] from first principles. Ask me what I currently assume, then separate hard facts from assumptions and habits. Rebuild the problem from the facts only, and suggest three solutions I would not have considered if I had followed convention. Question anything that starts with "we have always".
Pro tip: Question every "everyone knows" assumption; that is where new options usually hide.
How to use this prompt
- Open ChatGPT and start a new chat.
- Paste the prompt.
- Replace each [BRACKETED] field with your real details and paste in your own text where asked.
- Reply with follow-ups such as "make it shorter" or "make it sound more like me".
Prompt at a glance
- Category
- Text & chat
- Works with
- ChatGPT · Gemini · Claude
- Length
- 51 words
- Fields to fill in
- PROBLEM
- Last updated
Frequently asked questions
Which AI tools work with this prompt?
It is written for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste it into your preferred tool and adjust the wording if the result is off.
What do I need to fill in?
Replace the field before you send it: PROBLEM. Each field shows an example in the prompt.
Should I paste private information into the prompt?
Only what the task needs. Remove names, contact details and other sensitive data before pasting a resume or document into any AI tool.
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