LESSON 0125 minutes · Last tested 10 September 2026

Write a useful website brief for an AI

Turn a loose idea into clear instructions before you ask an AI tool to build anything.

THE GOAL

What you will finish

Finish with a one-page brief that explains the audience, purpose, pages, content, design limits and definition of done.

Free toolsAny notes appChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Codex or another AI assistant
WORK THROUGH IT

Step by step

  1. 01

    Name one visitor

    Write down exactly who the first useful version is for. Avoid broad answers such as everyone or all businesses.

  2. 02

    Choose one outcome

    Decide what that visitor should understand or do after viewing the website.

  3. 03

    List the required content

    Write the headings, facts, links and calls to action you already know. Mark missing facts instead of asking AI to invent them.

  4. 04

    Set boundaries

    State the pages, visual direction, mobile requirements, accessibility needs and features that are out of scope.

  5. 05

    Define done

    Describe the checks the finished website must pass: working links, mobile layout, readable text, no exposed secrets and a successful deployment.

COPYABLE PROMPT

Use this as a starting point

Help me turn the notes below into a website build brief. Keep every fact unchanged. Do not invent testimonials, experience, statistics or contact details. Organise the brief into audience, purpose, required content, pages, visual direction, technical limits, accessibility, privacy and acceptance checks. Mark unanswered questions clearly. Notes: [paste your notes]

Replace the bracketed notes with your own facts. Read the answer before using it.

COMMON ERRORS

Watch for these

  • Starting with colours before deciding the purpose
  • Asking for a complete website in one vague sentence
  • Letting the AI invent proof, clients or qualifications
FINAL CHECK

Before you continue

  • The audience is specific
  • The main visitor action is clear
  • All claims come from you
  • Mobile and accessibility are included
  • Unanswered questions are visible
PRIMARY GUIDANCE

Read the source material