Step-by-Step Problem Solving (Chain-of-Thought) › Common Patterns in Chain-of-Thought Reasoning

As you use chain-of-thought prompting, you'll notice certain patterns that work well for different types of problems:

For math problems: Break into calculation steps, show each intermediate result

For logic puzzles: List constraints, test possibilities, eliminate what doesn't work

For planning tasks: Identify requirements, check resources, sequence actions

For analytical questions: State the question, gather relevant facts, weigh evidence, draw conclusions

For decision-making: Define options, list pros and cons for each, compare, recommend

You don't need to specify these patterns in your prompt. Just asking for step-by-step thinking often triggers the appropriate pattern. But if the model isn't structuring its reasoning the way you want, you can provide an example that demonstrates the pattern you prefer.