Map
Framework

PAIN (Problem–Action–Information–Next steps)

The question it answers

When a team leader is stuck on a problem such as managing the team's time, what should the prompt tell an AI about the problem, the action wanted, the information needed and the next steps?

Origin
Macai, 2023
Diagram type
Process by phase
Level of analysis
Individual
Topics
AI for leaders
Glass sphere with a glowing neural-network core, icon for AI for leaders

Diagram

PAIN (Problem–Action–Information–Next steps)

  1. PAIN
  2. ProblemDescribe the problem or challenge you are facing.
  3. ActionRequest a specific action or solution.
  4. InformationAsk for relevant information or details.
  5. Next stepsAsk for the recommended next steps.

When to use it, and when not to

Use it when

Macai calls PAIN one of the best for a wide range of tasks and among the fastest to use and adapt. His sample prompt asks for strategies for a personal problem (time management), practical advice and further resources or tools.

Sources

References

Listed A–Z by author surname, Harvard style. A source with a DOI links to https://doi.org/…; one without links to its page or says plainly that it has no DOI.

  1. Macai, P. (2023) ChatGPT Prompt PAIN Framework. LinkedIn post, August 2023.No DOIlinkedin.comSource page