Ask What Info Is Missing

Ask What Information Is Missing (AI Skill)

Overview

By default, when an AI is given an underspecified prompt (e.g., "How should I price my consulting services?"), it will rarely pause to say, "I don't know your industry, target client, or operating costs." Instead, it silently fills the gaps with assumptions, resulting in generic, disconnected advice.

The Context Gap Discovery Protocol turns this dynamic upside down: it explicitly commands the AI to identify missing parameters and interview you before finalizing its recommendation.

The Context Gap Discovery Loop

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                 Context Gap Discovery Loop                  │
│                                                             │
│  User Raw Prompt ──► [ AI Context Diagnostic Check ]        │
│                                │                            │
│                                ▼                            │
│  [ Lists Top 3-5 Missing Variables & Why They Matter ]      │
│                                │                            │
│                                ▼                            │
│  User Answers Gaps ──► [ Tailored, Zero-Assumption Output ] │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Master Gap Discovery Prompts

Pattern 1: The "Interview Me First" Pattern

Use this at the beginning of any complex strategy, design, or business task:

I want to [INSERT GOAL / PROJECT].

Before giving me advice or solutions:
1. Ask me the **top 3 to 5 questions** you need answered to give a tailored, expert recommendation.
2. For each question, briefly explain *why* that detail changes the outcome.
3. Wait for my answers before writing the final plan.

Pattern 2: The "Blind-Spot Audit" (Post-Draft Check)

Use this after receiving an initial draft or plan:

Review the advice you just gave.
- What critical information did I omit from my original prompt that could invalidate your recommendations?
- What edge cases or assumptions are you making about my budget, timeline, or tech stack?

Real-World Case Study

Scenario: Setting Up an LLC / Business Entity

Weak Direct Prompt (Silent Assumption Trap)

User: "Should I form an LLC or an S-Corp?"

❌ AI dumps a generic textbook comparison of pass-through taxation without knowing revenue, state, or owner count.

The "Interview Me" Prompt & Result

User: "I am starting a new business and deciding between an LLC and S-Corp. Ask me the 4 essential questions you need to advise me properly."

AI Response:

To give you the exact financial and tax comparison, please answer these 4 questions:

1. Expected Net Profit: What is your projected net profit in Year 1? (If under $60k-$80k, S-Corp payroll and accounting overhead often outweighs tax savings).
2. State / Jurisdiction: Which US state are you operating in? (States like California levy annual franchise fees and specific S-Corp requirements).
3. Ownership Structure: Will you have foreign investors, venture capital, or multiple partners? (S-Corps have strict limits: max 100 shareholders, all US citizens/residents).
4. Active vs. Passive Involvement: Will you be actively working in the business, or is this passive investment?

Key Benefits