With Descript, you can use Underlord to edit your content, generate custom images or video, use templates for multi-step workflows, and more—just by describing what you want in plain language.
The key to good results? A clear prompt. Think of it like giving directions: the more context you provide, the better the outcome. You don't need to be a prompt expert—you just need to be specific.
This article covers:
What makes a good prompt?
A good prompt usually includes these elements:
- Action: What job needs doing?
- Context: Who’s this for? Where will it be used?
- Tone: How should it feel?
- Format: What should the output look like?
- Constraints: What rules should it follow?
You don’t need all of these every time. Start with what’s most important, then refine from there.
Attach files to provide more context — for example, a starting image and (optionally) a last frame, a brand photo for color direction, or a PDF of your slides.
Building a prompt
Let’s see how these elements come together for different AI features in Descript.
Final prompt
Turn this 60-minute podcast into 5-6 short clips for Instagram and TikTok. Keep them punchy and attention-grabbing, in vertical format with bold captions. Each clip should be 30-60 seconds and focus on one key insight.
| Prompt element | Example text |
|---|---|
| Action | “Turn this 60-minute podcast into 5–6 short clips…” |
| Context | “…for Instagram and TikTok…” |
| Tone | “…keep them punchy and attention-grabbing…” |
| Format | “…vertical format with bold captions.” |
| Constraints | “…each clip should be 30–60 seconds and focus on one key insight.” |
Example prompt for generating images:
Generate images showing teams collaborating in modern office settings for a product demo video about our new project management software. Professional but approachable, not too corporate or staged. Cinematic-style realism, with wide-angle shots, natural lighting, 16:9 format. Show diverse teams, avoid clichés like high-fives or fist bumps.
Example prompt for creating a template:
Take this training recording and repurpose it as an internal training video. Remove the Q&A sections, add chapter markers, and create an intro card showing the title and chapters. Include captions throughout. Keep it clear and instructional — friendly but professional. Final video should be 12–18 minutes. Learn more about creating your own custom template.
How to improve your results
Your first prompt doesn’t need to be perfect. Start with a clear request, see what happens, then adjust.
- If it’s close: “Make it a little more casual” or “Brighten the lighting.”
- If it missed the mark: “Try again, but make it feel more polished.”
- If it did too much: “Keep the captions, remove the music.”
- Break complex edits into steps: “Summarize this into 60 seconds” → then “Now add captions.”
- Give feedback: Click 👍 or 👎 to help improve results.
If you’re using Underlord: You can undo or roll back changes to previous versions and try again.