Writing AI-Optimized PRDs

AI coding assistants like Cursor and Replit work best when given clear, structured instructions. Here's how to write PRDs that AI can understand and implement effectively.

Structure Matters

AI assistants parse documents sequentially. Organize your PRD with:

Overview first

Requirements in order of priority

Technical details last

Be Specific, Not Vague

Instead of: "User authentication"

Write: "User authentication with email/password, including password reset flow and session management using JWT tokens"

Include Technical Context

AI needs to know your tech stack:

Framework (Next.js, React, etc.)

Database (PostgreSQL, MongoDB)

Key libraries (Prisma, Stripe)

Code style preferences

Use Acceptance Criteria

For each feature, include clear acceptance criteria:

Feature: User Login

[ ] Email and password form with validation

[ ] Error handling for invalid credentials

[ ] Redirect to dashboard on success

[ ] Remember me functionality

Provide Architecture Guidance

Include diagrams or descriptions of:

Component structure

API endpoints

Database schema

Data flow

Format for Parsing

Use markdown formatting:

Headers for sections

Lists for requirements

Code blocks for examples

Tables for specifications

Test Your PRD

Give your PRD to an AI assistant and see if it generates the expected code. Refine areas where the output differs from your expectations.

Writing AI-Optimized PRDs for Cursor and Replit