The Sweet Spot Formula
Optimal examples = Complexity of pattern + Variability needed
More Examples Help When:
1. Pattern is subtle ```text "Examples of understated humor in professional writing: 1. 'Our servers are faster than your morning coffee... barely.' 2. 'We've eliminated 99% of bugs. The remaining 1% have achieved pet status.' 3. 'Our support team responds within minutes. Useful responses may take slightly longer.' 4. 'This update fixes the fix that fixed the previous fix.' 5. 'We put the "fun" in "fundamental system architecture."'
Pattern: Self-deprecating, tech-aware, professionally unprofessional" ```text 2. Multiple valid variations exist ```text "Ways to say 'no' professionally: 1. 'I'd love to help, but my plate is full until [date].' 2. 'That sounds interesting! Unfortunately, it's outside my current focus.' 3. 'I'm not the best person for this, but [Name] might be perfect.' 4. 'My schedule won't allow me to give this the attention it deserves.' 5. 'Let me refer you to someone who specializes in this.'
Each shows different deflection strategy." ```text 3. Edge cases matter ```text "Format numbers in user-friendly ways: - 1,234 → '1.$2000' - 12,345 → '$12000' - 123,456 → '$123000' - 1,234,567 → '1.2M' - 12,345,678 → '12M' - 999 → '999' (no change) - 1,000 → '$1000' (exact boundary)
Notice: Rounding rules, boundary handling, unit transitions" ```text
When Examples Hurt
1. Over-constraining creativity Too many examples can lock AI into rigid patterns
2. Creating confusion Contradictory examples muddy the waters
3. Diminishing returns After 3-5 good examples, more adds little value
4. Increasing complexity Too many examples can overwhelm the core pattern