These coding prompts work with AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Claude and with coding agents such as Cursor, Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, and Codex. With agents, the most effective pattern is to ask for a plan first, approve it, then let the agent implement in small steps with tests. Replace everything in [brackets].
Part of the AI Prompt Library. Last updated September 2026. For snippet-level prompts, see ChatGPT Coding Prompts.
Prompts for Coding Agents
1. Plan Before Coding
I want to [feature or change]. Read the relevant parts of the codebase and propose a plan: files to change, the approach, risks, and tests to add. Do not write code yet.
2. Implement in Small Steps
Implement step 1 of the plan only. Keep changes minimal, follow the existing code style, and run the tests. Summarize what you changed.
3. Fix a Failing Test
This test is failing: [test name and output]. Find the root cause in the code, not the test, and propose the smallest fix. Explain the cause.
4. Understand a Codebase
Give me an overview of this repository: main components, how data flows, where configuration lives, and the three files I should read first.
Prompts for Any Assistant
5. Security Review
Review this code for security issues, such as injection, authentication, secrets, and input validation. Rank them by severity and suggest fixes. [paste code]
6. Performance
This function is slow with large inputs: [code]. Explain why, and suggest a more efficient approach with its trade-offs.
7. Documentation
Write a README section explaining how to set up, configure, and run this project, based on these files: [files]. Include common troubleshooting steps.
8. Migrate Code
Convert this code from [old library or version] to [new library or version]. List breaking changes and anything that needs manual testing. [paste code]
Tips
- Commit before letting an agent make changes, so you can roll back.
- Keep secrets out of prompts and use business plans for proprietary code.
- Review every diff and run tests; see AI in Software Development.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prompt a coding agent effectively?
Give a clear goal and context, ask for a plan first, then implement in small, tested steps.
Which AI is best for coding?
GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code, and Codex are all strong. See AI code assistants.
Can AI review my code?
Yes. It catches many issues but not all, so keep human review and tests.