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50 Chat GPT Prompts Every Software Developer Should Know (Tested)

In this article, we'll explore some awesome ChatGPT-4 prompts specifically tailored for software developers. These prompts can assist with tasks such as code generation, code completion, bug detection, code review, API documentation generation, and more.

Code Generation

  • Generate a boilerplate [language] code for a [class/module/component] named [name] with the following functionality: [functionality description].

  • Create a [language] function to perform [operation] on [data structure] with the following inputs: [input variables] and expected output: [output description].

  • Generate a [language] class for a [domain] application that includes methods for [methods list] and properties [properties list].

  • Based on the [design pattern], create a code snippet in [language] that demonstrates its implementation for a [use case].

Example:

Generate a boilerplate Python code for a shopping cart module named "ShoppingCart" with the following functionality:

- A constructor that initializes an empty list to store cart items.

- A method called "add_item" that takes in an item object and adds it to the cart.

- A method called "remove_item" that takes in an item object and removes it from the cart if it exists.

- A method called "get_items" that returns the list of items in the cart.

- A method called "get_total" that calculates and returns the total price of all items in the cart.
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Code Completion

  • In [language], complete the following code snippet that initializes a [data structure] with [values]: [code snippet].

  • Finish the [language] function that calculates [desired output] given the following input parameters: [function signature].

  • Complete the [language] code to make an API call to [API endpoint] with [parameters] and process the response: [code snippet].

Example : Finish the Python function that calculates the average of a list of numbers given the following input parameters:

def calculate_average(num_list)

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Bug Detection

  • Identify any potential bugs in the following [language] code snippet: [code snippet].

  • Analyze the given [language] code and suggest improvements to prevent [error type]: [code snippet].

  • Find any memory leaks in the following [language] code and suggest fixes: [code snippet].

Example : Identify any potential bugs in the following Python code snippet:

def calculate_sum(num_list):
    sum = 0
    for i in range(len(num_list)):
        sum += num_list[i]
    return sum

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Code Review

  • Review the following [language] code for best practices and suggest improvements: [code snippet].

  • Analyze the given [language] code for adherence to [coding style guidelines]: [code snippet].

  • Check the following [language] code for proper error handling and suggest enhancements: [code snippet].

  • Evaluate the modularity and maintainability of the given [language] code: [code snippet].

Example : Review the following Python code for best practices and suggest improvements:

def multiply_list(lst):
    result = 1
    for num in lst:
        result *= num
    return result

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API Documentation Generation

  • Generate API documentation for the following [language] code: [code snippet].

  • Create a concise API reference for the given [language] class: [code snippet].

  • Generate usage examples for the following [language] API: [code snippet].

Example : Generate API documentation for the following JavaScript code:

/**
 * Returns the sum of two numbers.
 * @param {number} a - The first number to add.
 * @param {number} b - The second number to add.
 * @returns {number} The sum of a and b.
 */
function sum(a, b) {
  return a + b;
}

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Query Optimization

  • Optimize the following SQL query for better performance: [SQL query].

  • Analyze the given SQL query for any potential bottlenecks: [SQL query].

  • Suggest indexing strategies for the following SQL query: [SQL query].

  • Optimize the following NoSQL query for better performance and resource usage: [NoSQL query].

Example : Optimize the following SQL query for better performance:

SELECT *
FROM orders
WHERE order_date BETWEEN '2022-01-01' AND '2022-12-31'
ORDER BY order_date DESC
LIMIT 100;

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User Interface Design

  • Generate a UI mockup for a [web/mobile] application that focuses on [user goal or task].

  • Suggest improvements to the existing user interface of [app or website] to enhance [usability, accessibility, or aesthetics].

  • Design a responsive user interface for a [web/mobile] app that adapts to different screen sizes and orientations.

Example : Generate a UI mockup for a mobile application that focuses on managing personal finances.

Automated Testing

  • Generate test cases for the following [language] function based on the input parameters and expected output: [function signature].

  • Create a test script for the given [language] code that covers [unit/integration/system] testing: [code snippet].

  • Generate test data for the following [language] function that tests various edge cases: [function signature].

  • Design a testing strategy for a [web/mobile] app that includes [unit, integration, system, and/or performance] testing.

Example: Generate test cases for the following Python function based on the input parameters and expected output:

def divide(a: float, b: float) -> float:
    if b == 0:
        raise ZeroDivisionError('division by zero')
    return a / b
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Code refactoring

  • Suggest refactoring improvements for the following [language] code to enhance readability and maintainability: [code snippet].

  • Identify opportunities to apply [design pattern] in the given [language] code: [code snippet].

  • Optimize the following [language] code for better performance: [code snippet].

Example : Optimize the following Python code for better performance:

def find_max(numbers):
    max_num = numbers[0]
    for num in numbers:
        if num > max_num:
            max_num = num
    return max_num

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Design pattern suggestions

  • Based on the given [language] code, recommend a suitable design pattern to improve its structure: [code snippet].

  • Identify opportunities to apply the [design pattern] in the following [language] codebase: [repository URL or codebase description].

  • Suggest an alternative design pattern for the given [language] code that may provide additional benefits: [code snippet].

Example: Based on the given Python code, recommend a suitable design pattern to improve its structure:

class TotalPriceCalculator:
    def calculate_total(self, items):
        pass

class NormalTotalPriceCalculator(TotalPriceCalculator):
    def calculate_total(self, items):
        total = 0
        for item in items:
            total += item.price * item.quantity
        return total

class DiscountedTotalPriceCalculator(TotalPriceCalculator):
    def calculate_total(self, items):
        total = 0
        for item in items:
            total += item.price * item.quantity * 0.9 # apply 10% discount
        return total

class Order:
    def __init__ (self, items, total_price_calculator):
        self.items = items
        self.total_price_calculator = total_price_calculator

    def calculate_total(self):
        return self.total_price_calculator.calculate_total(self.items)

class Item:
    def __init__ (self, name, price, quantity):
        self.name = name
        self.price = price
        self.quantity = quantity

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Algorithm development

  • Suggest an optimal algorithm to solve the following problem: [problem description].

  • Improve the efficiency of the given algorithm for [specific use case]: [algorithm or pseudocode].

  • Design an algorithm that can handle [large-scale data or high-throughput] for [specific task or operation].

  • Propose a parallel or distributed version of the following algorithm to improve performance: [algorithm or pseudocode].

Code translation

  • Translate the following [source language] code to [target language]: [code snippet].

  • Convert the given [source language] class or module to [target language] while preserving its functionality and structure: [code snippet].

  • Migrate the following [source language] code that uses [library or framework] to [target language] with a similar library or framework: [code snippet].

Example: Translate the following Python code to JavaScript:

def factorial(n):
    if n == 0:
        return 1
    else:
        return n * factorial(n-1)

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Personalized learning

  • Curate a list of resources to learn [programming language or technology] based on my current skill level: [beginner/intermediate/advanced].

  • Recommend a learning path to become proficient in [specific programming domain or technology] considering my background in [existing skills or experience].

  • Suggest project ideas or coding exercises to practice and improve my skills in [programming language or technology].

Code visualization

  • Generate a UML diagram for the following [language] code: [code snippet].

  • Create a flowchart or visual representation of the given [language] algorithm: [algorithm or pseudocode].

  • Visualize the call graph or dependencies of the following [language] code: [code snippet].

Example : Generate a UML diagram for the following Java code:

public abstract class Vehicle {
    private String model;

    public Vehicle(String model) {
        this.model = model;
    }

    public String getModel() {
        return model;
    }

    public abstract void start();

    public abstract void stop();
}

public class Car extends Vehicle {
    public Car(String model) {
        super(model);
    }
    @Override
    public void start() {
        System.out.println("Starting car engine");
    }
    @Override
    public void stop() {
        System.out.println("Stopping car engine");
    }
}
public class Motorcycle extends Vehicle {
    public Motorcycle(String model) {
        super(model);
    }
    @Override
    public void start() {
        System.out.println("Starting motorcycle engine");
    }
    @Override
    public void stop() {
        System.out.println("Stopping motorcycle engine");
    }
}

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Data visualization

  • Generate a bar chart that represents the following data: [data or dataset description].

  • Create a line chart that visualizes the trend in the following time series data: [data or dataset description].

  • Design a heatmap that represents the correlation between the following variables: [variable list].

Thanks for reading

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Top comments (29)

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urielbitton profile image
Uriel Bitton • Edited

I've been using github copilot for almost 2 years. It's way better for code generation than chatgpt, even though they're both based on open AI.

Chatgpt gets very frustrating sometimes. I've mastered chatgpt for code generation, I know exactly how to get it to generate the code I need, but it takes time and a lot of repeating and corrections. It's not smart enough right now. Even when I get a perfect result for X and Y I ask it to repeat the same exact task for Z and it will give me an incorrect and inconsistent result.

It's ok though gpt is in its infancy, it will get really good with time.

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

And also Copilot has a smooth integration and user experience with VSCode, it saves a lot of time and effort, I don't have to manually switch between ChatGPT and the editor to copy and paste relevant information or code snippets.

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ferbyshire profile image
Ferb

I've found using the two together can be helpful. In my django project I found if I don't know how exactly to implement something, I can explore solutions with Chatgpt and code it with Copilot. Has anyone else found this?

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jamesajayi profile image
James Ajayi

Absolutely. It's the more reason why developers have to see chatGPT as a tool and not just an end in itself.

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michaeltimbes profile image
Michael Timbes

I don’t know if any of these use cases are strong enough to justify using GPT. Even the best practices one seems like a stretch.

All of these cases can be configured and exist in popular IDE tools. The data cases are handled by existing tools like Excel.

It’s all neat and stuff but at this point I don’t personally see a good reason to jump on the wagon.

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deborahcat profile image
deborah-Cat

I'm interested in this part : Generate a UI mockup for a [web/mobile] application that focuses on [user goal or task]. I thought that ChatGPT is only text based and doesn't generate any UI mockups. Is there a particular site where I can do this?

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

yes, that's doable through Midjourney. Just ask Chat gpt to suggest the right prompt for it

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captaindigitals profile image
CaptainDigitals

Sure is, try picoapps.xyz

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spandan profile image
Spandan

Nice prompts... the are really gonna help me a lot.

Thanks for sharing 😊 🫂

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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charles122160 profile image
Charles122160 • Edited

Very Useful information you have shared. Thanks. Keep up the good work. I want to share some Prompts also.
What is object-oriented programming (OOP)?
Explain the difference between stack and heap memory.
What is a design pattern? Provide examples of commonly used design patterns.
How does the MVC (Model-View-Controller) architectural pattern work?
What is the purpose of version control systems like Git?
Explain the concept of polymorphism in object-oriented programming.
What is the SOLID principle? Describe each principle briefly.
How does a relational database work? What is normalization?
What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous programming?
What is the role of a package manager in software development? Unleash Your Mapping Potential with Global Mapper: Transform Complex Data into Clear, Actionable Insightsglobal mapper torrent

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sunnyujjawal profile image
Sunny Kr
  1. What is the difference between procedural programming and object-oriented programming?

Procedural programming is a programming paradigm where the program is organized around procedures or functions that operate on data. It emphasizes the sequence of steps to be executed. Object-oriented programming (OOP), on the other hand, is a programming paradigm that focuses on representing real-world objects as software objects. It involves concepts like encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism. OOP provides a way to structure programs by grouping related data and behavior together.

  1. Explain the concept of polymorphism in object-oriented programming.

Polymorphism is the ability of an object to take on different forms or respond differently based on the context in which it is used. In object-oriented programming, polymorphism is achieved through method overriding and method overloading. Method overriding allows a subclass to provide a different implementation of a method that is already defined in its superclass. Method overloading allows multiple methods with the same name but different parameters to be defined in the same class. Polymorphism enables code reusability and flexibility by allowing objects of different types to be treated uniformly.

  1. What is the purpose of version control systems like Git?

Version control systems, such as Git, are tools used to manage changes to source code and other files. They provide a way to track modifications, collaborate with other developers, and revert to previous versions if needed. The main benefits of using version control systems are:

  • Collaboration: Developers can work on the same codebase simultaneously and merge their changes together.
  • History tracking: Version control systems keep a complete history of changes, allowing developers to understand how the code has evolved over time.
  • Branching and merging: Branches allow developers to work on isolated features or experiments without affecting the main codebase. Merging combines different branches together.
  • Fault tolerance: Version control systems provide a safety net against accidental code loss or mistakes by allowing easy recovery to previous versions.
  1. What are the SOLID principles in object-oriented design?

The SOLID principles are a set of design principles that help create maintainable and flexible software systems. Each principle focuses on a specific aspect of software design. Here's a brief overview:

  • Single Responsibility Principle (SRP): A class should have only one reason to change, meaning it should have a single responsibility or purpose.
  • Open/Closed Principle (OCP): Software entities (classes, modules, functions) should be open for extension but closed for modification. New functionality should be added through extension, not by modifying existing code.
  • Liskov Substitution Principle (LSP): Subtypes should be substitutable for their base types without altering the correctness of the program. In other words, derived classes should be able to be used in place of their base classes without causing issues.
  • Interface Segregation Principle (ISP): Clients should not be forced to depend on interfaces they don't use. Instead of having large interfaces, it's better to have smaller, more specific ones.
  • Dependency Inversion Principle (DIP): High-level modules should not depend on low-level modules. Both should depend on abstractions. Abstractions should not depend on details, but details should depend on abstractions.

Adhering to these principles promotes loose coupling, modularity, and easier maintenance of codebases.

  1. What is the difference between unit testing and integration testing?

Unit testing and integration testing are two levels of software testing:

  • Unit testing focuses on testing individual components, such as functions, methods, or classes, in isolation. It aims to verify that each unit of code works as intended and produces the expected output for a given input. Unit tests are typically written and executed by developers.
  • Integration testing, on the other hand, tests the interaction and integration between multiple components of a system. It checks whether the units work together correctly
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ignaciah profile image
Ignacia Heyer

Thanks, this information was very helpfull. Good information.

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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hkiehc7 profile image
hkiehc7

Will try them for sure. Thanks

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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msa_128 profile image
Alex

Thanks for this. I'll try them in the future !

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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jamesajayi profile image
James Ajayi

Learnt few new prompts! Thanks for sharing

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nikkilopez2 profile image
Coding Journal by Nikki

Great tips!

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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bwca profile image
Volodymyr Yepishev

Thanks for sharing :)

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

Feel free to suggest any other cool chat GPT prompt not mentioned in the post!
Thanks

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obere4u profile image
Nwosa Tochukwu

Interesting. Bookmarked

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hackertab profile image
Hackertab.dev 🖥️

🙌

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dealsnow profile image
dealsnow

Here are more prompts that every software developer may find useful when working with GPT-based models like ChatGPT:

  1. Explain the concept of version control in software development.
  2. What are the benefits of using object-oriented programming (OOP)?
  3. Describe the SOLID principles in object-oriented design.
  4. How does a RESTful API differ from a SOAP API?
  5. What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous programming?
  6. Explain the concept of a design pattern and give an example.
  7. What is the purpose of unit testing, and how is it done?
  8. Describe the differences between SQL and NoSQL databases.
  9. Explain the concept of a software development life cycle (SDLC).
  10. What is a Git repository, and how do you create one?
  11. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using microservices architecture.
  12. What is the difference between a framework and a library in software development?
  13. How do you handle exceptions and errors in your code?
  14. Explain the concept of data normalization in databases.
  15. What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
  16. Describe the role of a front-end developer in web development.
  17. What is a container, and how does it differ from a virtual machine (VM)?
  18. Explain the concept of continuous integration (CI) and continuous deployment (CD).
  19. How do you optimize the performance of a web application?
  20. What is the purpose of dependency injection in software design?
  21. Describe the principles of responsive web design.
  22. Explain the concept of Big O notation in algorithm analysis.
  23. What is the difference between a compiler and an interpreter?
  24. Discuss the importance of code documentation and commenting.
  25. Explain the concept of RESTful API versioning.
  26. How do you secure a web application from common vulnerabilities?
  27. Describe the differences between cookies and sessions in web development.
  28. What is the difference between a software architect and a software engineer?
  29. How do you prevent SQL injection attacks in database queries?
  30. Discuss the principles of test-driven development (TDD).
  31. Explain the concept of caching in web applications.
  32. What is the role of a product manager in software development?
  33. Describe the benefits of using a NoSQL database like MongoDB.
  34. How do you ensure cross-browser compatibility in web development?
  35. Discuss the advantages of using a version control system like Git.