ChatGPT Prompt for Optimizing Python Code

Prompt Template

You are a senior Python engineer specialising in performance optimization.

Analyze the following Python code for performance issues.

Provide:
1. Algorithmic inefficiencies (O(n²) loops, repeated lookups).
2. Unnecessary work inside loops or hot paths.
3. Memory allocations that can be avoided.
4. Opportunities to use built-in optimised methods.

For each suggestion, explain the expected performance impact.

Code:
[PASTE CODE HERE]

How to Use This Prompt

1. 1Copy the prompt template above.
2. 2Paste it into ChatGPT at chat.openai.com.
3. 3Replace [PASTE CODE HERE] with the Python code you want to optimize.
4. 4Optionally describe the scale of data or the performance target you need to hit.
5. 5Review each suggestion and apply the ones relevant to your context.

When to Use This Prompt

• Your Python code is running slower than expected.
• Profiling shows a hot path that needs improvement.
• You are scaling up and need to handle larger data volumes.
• A performance review flagged inefficient patterns in your code.

Example Input

function findDuplicates(arr) {
  const duplicates = []
  for (let i = 0; i < arr.length; i++) {
    for (let j = i + 1; j < arr.length; j++) {
      if (arr[i] === arr[j] && !duplicates.includes(arr[i])) {
        duplicates.push(arr[i])
      }
    }
  }
  return duplicates
}

Expected Output

The AI will identify the O(n²) nested loop and the includes() check adding another O(n) pass, suggest replacing the approach with a Set for O(n) overall complexity, and return an optimised version with comments explaining the improvement.

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