Prompt Like a PM: How to Write User Stories

The most effective way I’ve built my muscles with generative AI wasn’t by taking an AI course or memorizing hundreds of prompts:

💫 It came from two things:
1. Direct application — the same way I graduate from tricycle to bicycle:
by riding (& falling off the road, but getting back on, each time with a little more balance.)
2. Learning how to write User Stories and Tech Support Tickets — and practicing, getting it wrong, and iterating.

These are skills I developed from being on the inside leading Operations & Product Marketing teams across startups, agencies, and bigger tech orgs.

In my last post, I shared the 'Why' around Prompting like a Product Manager, so here's the "How":

✍ For folks looking for your tricycle of Prompt Engineering — start w writing User Stories.

User Stories help define what the user needs, why they need it, and what value it delivers.

This is very much Product Management language written from a specific POV, so everyone building understands what's being built, who it’s for and why it matters.

User Story Template:

Basic Format:
As a [type of user],
I want to [do this specific thing],
So that [I can achieve this outcome].

💭 Notice the range of roles in my examples — from chef to product designer, economist to musician. The focus here isn't about perfection, it's about building a new muscle and skill. It's okay to not get it right away.

🪴 What’s my main takeaway?
When used w intention, generative AI has the potential to democratize access to tools, workflows, and creative possibilities that were once limited to specific industries or technical skill sets.

Prompt Engineering rooted in real roles gives more people a seat at the table.