The journalDesign with AI · Practical guide

That sketch in your notebook can become a prototype.

Use your rough ideas to direct a more thoughtful design process.

Explain the intent behind the drawing

A sketch shows layout, but often hides the reasoning. Describe who the screen serves, their task, the hierarchy, and what each action should do. If your tool accepts images, attach the sketch; otherwise describe its structure clearly.

Separate structure from style

First check the flow and information order. Then define typography, color, spacing, and tone. Ask for alternatives that solve the same problem differently instead of endless visual variations with identical assumptions.

Prototype the important moment

Build the smallest interaction that helps you learn. Include a realistic empty, success, and error state. Generated interfaces can look complete while containing inactive controls; test every action you plan to show.

Bring a person into the loop

Give someone a task without explaining the interface. Observe what they do and what they expect. Keep feedback about preference separate from problems completing the task. Update the prototype based on what you learn.

Make it yours

Sketch a booking flow with three steps. Add notes describing the user goal and the failure state. Use an approved tool to make a prototype and test the main task.