Editorial contribution · Personal
The question you haven’t asked yourself
Three focused questions can give a stuck problem a fresh angle.
Published: · Version 1
A prompt to try
I am stuck with this issue: [SITUATION IN 2–5 SENTENCES]. Ask exactly one unusual, respectful question that could reveal an unexamined assumption. Do not offer a solution yet. Wait for my reply, then ask at most two more questions, one at a time. I may skip any question or say STOP. Use only what I tell you. Do not assume hidden motives or avoidance. Label any interpretation, ask openly and offer an alternative explanation. Finish with: What did I actually say? What new question is worth considering? What small, reversible step could I choose myself? Do not diagnose me.
Copy the text into your AI, fill in the placeholders and check the answer.
Why try this?
You get a useful question before jumping to advice.
What you need
- An issue you feel stuck with; no real names needed.
How to start
- Copy the prompt, paste it into ChatGPT or Claude and fill in the placeholders.
- Add your details; answer any follow-up questions one at a time.
- Check and correct the result, then choose a useful next step.
What an answer could look like
Illustrative example · not a tested AI response
Illustrative example: What would need to be true for you to feel able to say no?
RobinPrompt.BETA 0.1.9