We've all been there: that $3D$ print fails at $90\%$, the $Arduino$ code won't compile because of one missing semicolon, or you're stuck researching the perfect sensor for days.
The "making" part is fun; the debugging, research, and documentation are not. These prompts are designed to get you past the technical roadblocks so you can get back to building.
Here are 5 workflows you can automate today:
1. The Instant Debugging Sensei (Code & Wiring)
Stop guessing why your code or wiring diagram isn't working. Get the most likely culprit first.
👉 Prompt:
I have a problem with my [Project Component, e.g., Arduino sketch, Raspberry Pi $Python$ script, $G-code$ file].
Here is the code/file content: [Paste Code/Snippet/G-Code]
The issue is: [Describe the problem, e.g., 'The servo jitters instead of rotating smoothly', 'The $3D$ print shifts halfway through layer 50'].
Suggest the top 3 most probable causes and provide the exact line of code or setting to check first.
💡 Example: Pasted an $Arduino$ sketch with timing issues $\rightarrow$ ChatGPT immediately flagged a blocking delay() function and suggested a non-blocking alternative.
2. The Sensor/Component Decider
You know the function you need (e.g., measure distance), but you need to choose the right hardware for your budget and platform.
👉 Prompt:
I need to measure [Measurement Goal, e.g., 'liquid level in a non-conductive tank', 'acceleration and rotation of a small drone'] for a [Platform, e.g., $Raspberry$ $Pi$, $Arduino$ $Nano$] project.
Suggest the top 2 most cost-effective and reliable sensors for this task.
For each, list:
- Model Name (e.g., $HC-SR04$)
- Pros and Cons for this specific platform.
- One line of boilerplate code to read data in [Language, e.g., $Python$, $C++$].
💡 Example: Asked for distance sensing on a $Pi$ $\rightarrow$ got a comparison of Ultrasonic vs. $LiDAR$ and the relevant $Python$ import lines.
3. The $3D$ Print Problem Solver
When a $3D$ print fails, it's rarely one problem. Get a full diagnostic breakdown based on the visual fault.
👉 Prompt:
My $3D$ print has failed. The material is [Material, e.g., $PLA$] and the fault is [Visual Description, e.g., 'layer separation on tall sections', 'stringing between parts', 'elephant's foot on the first layer'].
Provide a step-by-step troubleshooting checklist covering Slicer Settings and Printer Calibration adjustments that might fix this.
💡 Example: For "stringing" $\rightarrow$ got a prioritized list to adjust retraction distance, retraction speed, and print temperature.
4. The Project Documentarian
You finished the project, but now you have to write the build guide. Get the structure and tone right for a maker community post.
👉 Prompt:
Write the introduction and parts list for a community build post about my project: [Describe the Project, e.g., 'A voice-activated smart bird feeder using a Raspberry Pi camera'].
The tone should be [Tone, e.g., 'Excited and accessible', 'Highly technical and concise'].
The introduction should include a compelling hook and the required skill level.
💡 Example: The hook: "Tired of squirrels stealing all the seed? Build this $Pi$-powered fortress and start tracking your feathered friends!"
5. The Hardware Translator
Need to port code from one board to another (e.g., $ESP32$ to $Arduino$ $Uno$)? This helps you map the specific hardware calls.
👉 Prompt:
I am moving a sketch from [Source Board, e.g., $Arduino$ $Uno$] to [Target Board, e.g., $ESP32$].
List the 3 most common functions or libraries that will need to be changed/updated for the $ESP32$ and provide the typical replacement function name (e.g., $Uno$'s digitalWrite is X on $ESP32$).
💡 Example: For $Arduino$ to $Pi$ $\rightarrow$ noted the change from $Arduino$'s built-in $PWM$ functions to using a specific $Python$ library like $RPi.GPIO$.
P.S. Need a custom visual for that next project?
You've got the code and the wiring—now you need the perfect thumbnail or explanatory graphic for your build post.
Generate schematics, concept art, or eye-catching thumbnails with our image tool: Nano Banana Image Generator.
👉 I’ve collected dozens more prompts like these (for marketing, social media and more).
You can save them or even create your own advanced prompts at AISuperHub Prompt Hub.
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