Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-18-2026

Keywords

artificial intelligence, AI, prompt engineering, chunking, few-shot prompting, iterative prompt refinement, prompt chaining, flipped interaction prompting, perspective switching

Abstract

In the last edition, we explored two advanced prompt engineering techniques, chunking and few-shot prompting. In this edition, we will examine two more useful techniques: iterative prompt refinement and prompt chaining. Iterative prompt refinement involves repeatedly rephrasing and refining questions to lead to a better response. Prompt chaining involves guiding the artificial intelligence through related multi-step reasoning.

At first glance, iterative prompt refinement and prompt chaining may seem like the same concept, but the key difference lies in their approach. Refinement improves a single prompt through repeated adjustments, whereas chaining links a series of prompts together to tackle different stages of a larger problem. For example, in contract drafting, iterative refinement might involve repeatedly rephrasing a request for an indemnity clause until the language is precise and protective, whereas prompt chaining would involve first asking the artificial intelligence to draft the indemnity clause, then a separate prompt to analyze its enforceability under Arkansas law, and finally another to suggest revisions that make it more favorable to your client. In other words, refinement polishes one question, while chaining builds a logical sequence of questions to solve a complex legal task.

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