The ICI Framework: Intent + Context + Instruction

The simplest way to improve prompt quality is to be explicit. The ICI framework gives you a repeatable structure for legal prompting.

Intent: define the job

State what you want in a single sentence. Examples: “Summarize,” “Extract,” “Draft,” “Critique,” “Generate issues.”

Context: supply what the model cannot know

Include the jurisdiction, facts, definitions, and the relevant text excerpt. In legal work, jurisdiction and procedural posture often matter as much as the question.

Instruction: specify the format and constraints

• Output format (bullets, table, memo headings)
• Length limits
• Tone and audience
• Require citations (and require the model to flag uncertainty)

A strong legal prompt template

You are a [ROLE].

TASK (Intent): [What you want done]

CONTEXT: [Jurisdiction, facts, pasted text]

INSTRUCTIONS: 
- Output format: [bullets/table/memo]
- Use only the provided sources; if you must infer, label it as an assumption.
- Provide a verification checklist for any factual/citation claims.

Try it

Exercise: Turn this weak prompt into a strong ICI prompt:

Summarize this contract.

Hint: Add (1) why you need the summary, (2) which clauses matter most, and (3) an output format (table + risk notes).