Designers are constantly juggling research, brainstorming, prototyping, and iteration. But what if you had a creative partner that could generate ideas, provide inspiration, and even draft starter content on demand?
That’s where ChatGPT comes in. Whether you’re stuck on microcopy, exploring color palettes, or brainstorming new interaction patterns, AI can help you move faster and think broader.
Here are some of my best practical prompts you can use in your UI/UX design workflow:
1. Checkout Prompt
Use it for: A quick checklist to make sure your checkout UI ticks off the essentials.
Prompt:
“Design a user-friendly checkout process for an e-commerce website with an emphasis on reducing cart abandonment.”
Output Example:
- Guest checkout option
- Clear progress indicator (steps)
- Fewer required fields
- Multiple payment methods
- Mobile-friendly form layout
(Outputs shortened for space — try the prompt in ChatGPT to see the full response.)
2. Interactive Elements for Engagement
Use it for: Quickly brainstorming interactive features.
Prompt:
“Generate ideas for interactive elements that encourage user engagement in a fitness-tracking app.”
Output Example:
- Achievement badges
- Weekly challenge streaks
- Social sharing widgets
- Personalized workout reminders
3. Color Schemes and Typography
Use it for: Exploring design directions that align with brand values.
Prompt:
“Suggest color schemes and typography for a finance management app that conveys trust and reliability.”
Output Example:
Color: Navy blue + muted green accents
Typography: Sans-serif font (Roboto, Inter) for clarity and authority
Contrast: High legibility with soft secondary tones
Error Message Prompt
Use it for: Generating approachable, human-sounding microcopy.
Prompt:
“Write copy for a modal telling users about a website’s cookies policy. Write it in an approachable tone.”
Output Example:
“We use cookies to make your browsing smooth and secure. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Want to learn more? [Read Policy]”
5. Onboarding Flow Prompt
Use it for: Sketching out onboarding journeys.
Prompt:
“Create a user flow for onboarding in a language learning app. Emphasize the ease of use for beginners.”
Output Example:
- Step 1: Quick sign-up with email/social
- Step 2: Select preferred language
- Step 3: Short placement quiz
- Step 4: Personalized learning path preview
- Step 5: First lesson starts immediately
6. Feedback Form Prompt
Use it for: Structuring forms that encourage useful input.
Prompt:
“Design a feedback form that encourages users to provide detailed insights for a product improvement app.”
Output Example:
- Rating scale (1–5)
- Open text: “What could we improve?”
- Dropdown: Select feature area
- Optional: Upload screenshot
7. Layout Concepts Prompt
Use it for: Brainstorming clean layout ideas.
Prompt:
“Generate layout concepts for a minimalist portfolio website that effectively showcases a photographer’s work.”
Output Example:
- Full-bleed hero image with name/logo
- Grid gallery with lightbox preview
- About section with bio + CTA
- Contact form with social links
8. UI Elements Prompt
Use it for: Quick references for dashboard components.
Prompt:
“Suggest UI elements for a clean and modern dashboard to display sales analytics.”
Output Example:
- KPI cards (revenue, conversions, growth %)
- Interactive charts (line, bar, pie)
- Date range filter
- User activity table
9. Microinteraction Ideas Prompt
Use it for: Adding small, delightful touches without overwhelming users.
Prompt:
“Suggest microinteraction ideas to make a social media feed more engaging without overwhelming the user.”
Output Example:
- Subtle “like” animation
- Auto-saving draft indicator
- Hover previews on links
- Smooth infinite scroll transitions
✨ Final Thoughts
ChatGPT won’t replace designers — but it can act as a powerful creative catalyst. With the right prompts, you can:
- Generate a variety of design directions quickly.
- Test out ideas before committing to prototypes.
- Save time on microcopy, layout brainstorming, and user flow planning.
Next time you’re stuck staring at a blank canvas, try feeding one of these prompts into ChatGPT. You might be surprised at how much faster you can move from idea → prototype → polished design.
