PromptCanvas: Composable Prompting Workspaces Using Dynamic Widgets for Exploration and Iteration in Creative Writing
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Abstract (arXiv)
We introduce PromptCanvas, a concept that transforms prompting into a composable, widget-based experience on an infinite canvas. Users can generate, customize, and arrange interactive widgets representing various facets of their text, offering greater control over AI-generated content. PromptCanvas allows widget creation through system suggestions, user prompts, or manual input, providing a flexible environment tailored to individual needs. This enables deeper engagement with the creative process. In a lab study with 18 participants, PromptCanvas outperformed a traditional conversational UI on the Creativity Support Index. Participants found that it reduced cognitive load, with lower mental demand and frustration. Qualitative feedback revealed that the visual organization of thoughts and easy iteration encouraged new perspectives and ideas. A follow-up field study (N=10) confirmed these results, showcasing the potential of dynamic, customizable interfaces in improving collaborative writing with AI.
Key facts. Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026). Builds on 29 of its 57 references that are in the map. First posted on arXiv 4 Jun 2025.
Builds on
29 of 57 references.
References · 29
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- 2021The Impact of Multiple Parallel Phrase Suggestions on Email Input and Composition Behaviour of Native and Non-Native English Writerscited by 61
17 more
- 2022Beyond Text Generation: Supporting Writers with Continuous Automatic Text Summariescited by 47
- 2023VISAR: A Human-AI Argumentative Writing Assistant with Visual Programming and Rapid Draft Prototypingcited by 46
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- 2023Spellburst: A Node-based Interface for Exploratory Creative Coding with Natural Language Promptscited by 30
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- 2025ACAI for SBOs: AI Co-creation for Advertising and Inspiration for Small Business Ownerscited by 2
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Citing papers per year: 2026: 2.
2 papers.