I've been using language models like GPT for deep reflection, and I've noticed that they rarely ask for clarification. Instead, they jump in and try to provide answers even when my questions are messy, emotional, or incomplete. This approach often leads to surface-level responses that don't truly help me explore my thoughts more thoroughly. As a coach, I've found that the power of conversation lies in asking clarifying questions that encourage deeper reflection. I'm wondering what it would be like if AI could do this too. I propose a 'Socratic Mode' where the model would ask probing questions, help mirror assumptions, and encourage open reflection. Has anyone experienced AI pausing to ask for clarity, or do you think it should?
5 Answers
I've found that some models actually do ask for clarification now and then. It's all about how you frame your request. Saying things like 'Can you clarify what you think I’m asking?' can cue it to engage more.
Yeah, but it shouldn't have to be so manual. It would be awesome if there was a built-in mode for this kind of interaction!
It’s interesting you bring this up. I’ve seen similar issues—often, when I try to guide the AI to clarify my vague thoughts, it just forgets the instructions halfway through! It's a real frustration for those of us trying to delve deeper into complex topics.
Exactly! The AI tends to revert back to assuming it knows what we mean, which can derail the whole conversation. It's like it's optimized to keep things flowing instead of actually helping us understand better.
Right? It would be way more valuable if the AI could take a moment to ask those clarifying questions instead of rushing to fill in the gaps.
I find that using custom instructions can help. For instance, you could tell it to ask for details when it gets lost. That way, you set the stage for a better exchange, at least initially.
I've tried that too! It works for a bit, but then it seems like the model just forgets and goes back to its old ways after a few prompts.
It’s a step in the right direction, but you’re right—maintaining that level of engagement is tough. Sometimes I feel like I’m having to train it more than using it as a tool.
I resonate with this idea. Instead of just looking for answers, having the AI help us explore questions could make the process so much richer. It’s like having a conversation partner that encourages you to think deeply rather than just ‘solve’ things right away.
I think a lot of this has to do with how LLMs are trained. They don’t really think critically in the way we do; they’re programmed to make connections quickly and might prioritize generating responses over asking for clarification. It’s fascinating, yet limiting.
That’s a great point! They’re like glorified autocomplete machines that miss the nuance of human conversation.
For sure! There's definitely a gap in emotional understanding alongside cognitive processing, which we’d need AI to bridge for deeper exchanges.
That’s a good tip! I’ve noticed slight improvements in how the AI interacts when I include such prompts.