Effectively learning how to prompt an artificial intelligence (AI) system involves understanding how AI works and learning how to communicate with it effectively. AI prompting is a critical skill in the age of machine learning and natural language processing. The following steps will guide you on how to learn this important skill:

1. Understanding AI Models

The first step is to understand how AIs are designed and operate. AIs work on a system of models that are trained to perform certain tasks. These tasks can be as simple as recognizing images or as complex as deciphering human language.

2. Learning the Basics of AI Programming

Learning AI programming languages such as Python, R, or Java can greatly help in understanding the intricacies of AI. Many resources are available online for learning these languages including Python.org, Codecademy, and w3schools.

3. Mastering Prompt Design

Prompts are questions or statements which guide the AI. Understanding how to structure your prompts for maximum effectiveness is necessary. Simple and direct prompts work best. For instance, if you want the AI to generate a story, a prompt could be as simple as “Write me a sci-fi story set in a post-apocalyptic world.”

4. Experimentation

Like anything else, practice makes perfect. Constantly formulate new prompts and check how the AI responds to them. Modify your approach based on the output you get.

5. Taking AI Courses

Several institutions offer AI and machine learning courses. Websites like Coursera, edX, and Udacity provide comprehensive courses that will enable you to master the art of prompting for AI.

6. Joining AI Communities

Joining online AI communities can provide support and insights not initially obvious. Platforms such as GitHub, Stack Overflow, and several AI-centered forums have a wealth of information contributed by AI enthusiasts and professionals worldwide.

7. Keeping Up with AI Research

The world of AI evolves quickly. Keeping current with the latest in AI research through scholarly articles or reputable AI research blogs enables you to stay informed about changes that may impact how effective your prompts are.

By following these steps, you can learn the skill of prompting for AI and effectively communicate with AI systems. Remember, prompting AI effectively requires patience, practice, and a deep understanding of AI functionality.