What is a prompt in chatbot interactions?

In the context of chatbot interactions, a prompt refers to a question or statement presented by the chatbot to the user. Prompts are essential for guiding the conversation and eliciting responses from users. They serve as the initial input that establishes context and direction for the interaction. For instance, a chatbot might prompt a user by asking, "How can I assist you today?" This encourages user engagement and allows the chatbot to understand what information or assistance the user is seeking.

While a set of instructions for the chatbot or a predefined script for responses could inform the chatbot's behavior, they do not directly represent what a user interacts with in real-time. Similarly, a summary of user interactions would not fit the definition of a prompt, as it reflects past exchanges rather than facilitating current dialogue. Thus, seeing a prompt as the user's interface with the chatbot underscores its role in creating a dynamic and engaging experience in conversations.