As a professional AI tester, I employ several AI technologies for a variety of purposes. For example, Gemini Canvas has been my go-to for manuscript editing, while Perplexity is ideal for real-time searching.
But I constantly return to ChatGPT to increase my everyday productivity. ChatGPT stands noteworthy because of its adaptability. Whether I’m writing, brainstorming, organizing my day, or preparing for TV or radio interviews, it adapts to my demands seamlessly. It’s like having an eternally patient, super-intelligent assistant that improves as I use it — and I’d be lost without it.
Here are the ten essential cues I use to get the most of this useful AI tool.
1. Simplify complex topics
Prompt: “Explain [complex topic] in simple terms, as if I’m 12 years old.”
From tariffs to taxes, I am always looking to ChatGPT to help break things down into language that makes sense.
This prompt, in particular, simplifies complex topics into brief bullet points or step-by-step directions to help students understand them. I’ve used it numerous times, especially in the app when I’m out and about and need answers quickly.
2. Being more mindful
Ask me: “Tell me something about myself that you think I don’t know.”
Because I frequently use ChatGPT, the chatbot has gotten to know me very well. Whether I’m talking to it in voice mode or texting questions, it “gets” me.
Using this challenge has helped me discover previously unknown aspects of myself. To be completely honest, the follow-up inquiries have changed my life. If you’re a frequent user, you might also want to attempt the question, “What’s my most toxic trait?” This is another eye-opener.
3. Writing support
The prompt is: “Please review the following text for clarity, grammar, and overall impact: [insert text].”
Whether it’s an email to one of my children’s teachers or a request for an estimate on a new roof, ChatGPT always comes up with the greatest ideas to make my writing appear clearer and has the proper tone.
If you’ve ever sent an angry email that you later regretted, run it through ChatGPT the next time. It will help you get the message out correctly and avoid embarrassing mistakes.
As someone who appreciates journaling (I’ve been keeping one every day since I was eight years old), I’ve utilized ChatGPT to aid with daily thinking starters.
Try it yourself with the following prompt: “Ask me one meaningful question at a time to help me reflect on my thoughts, emotions, or goals today.” After I respond, ask a smart follow-up based on what I said. Maintain a helpful and curious tone, similar to an excellent therapist-meets-creative-writing teacher.
4. Summarize lengthy documents
Answer the question: “Summarize the key points of the following document: [insert text].”
From property ownership to sports rules, I’ve utilized ChatGPT almost every day to assist me get through documentation I didn’t have time to read. The chatbot extensively scans the document and organizes the information into bullet points.
I’ve also found it helpful to hand it a document and then begin asking it questions. For instance, “here read this for me.” It swiftly distills information into actionable takeaways.
5. Prepare for Interviews
“Simulate an interview with [broadcast].” You are the interviewer; I shall react. Please provide feedback on my responses.
I became a writer because I’d been horribly bashful my entire life. However, as an AI writer, I am occasionally interviewed for television and radio.
To prepare for interviews, I first take a dry run with ChatGPT. It has helped me become considerably more comfortable in circumstances that would otherwise be frightening.
This suggestion can be utilized in comparable scenarios such as job interviews, uncomfortable conversations, and performance reviews. ChatGPT uses realistic simulations to help you practice and improve your interview abilities.
6. Advice and decision making
Prompt: “I am trying to decide between [Option A] and [Option B].” Help me analyze the benefits and drawbacks of each and offer a solution based on [my priorities/criteria].”
If I genuinely need guidance and unbiased help when making a decision, I turn to ChatGPT. It removes all emotion from the problem and just weighs the advantages and negatives.
Instead of consulting a friend or family member (especially if the matter involves them), I ask ChatGPT for guidance.
7. Time-saving to-do list
Prompt: “Help me manage my day efficiently with these tasks [enter list]. Prioritize the most important/urgent jobs, estimate how long each task will take, and assist me in creating an easy-to-follow calendar so that everything is completed within [time period].”
If you’ve ever been so busy that you don’t know what to do first, this prompt is a lifesaver. It’s ideal for those overwhelming mornings or afternoons when you haven’t completed your to-do list.
This prompt transforms chaos into a clear, concrete plan—and can help you feel more in control of your time.
Final thoughts
ChatGPT is a tool I routinely use to help me think more clearly, communicate more effectively, and keep organized in a fast-paced world. These 7 prompts have become staples in my daily routine, allowing me to not only save time but also make smarter decisions and present the best version of myself.
Whether you’re new to AI or currently use it on a regular basis, implementing just a handful of these prompts could change the way you work, plan, and reflect. If you haven’t tapped into its potential yet, now is the time.
