Better questions. Better AI prompts.

Put the thinking before the tool.

An AI assistant can help you explore an idea, challenge an explanation, or structure a study session. It can also make confident mistakes. Keep a reliable source nearby, check calculations independently, and never enter confidential data without permission.

1. Explain the intuition first

Explain [concept] to someone who understands [prerequisite]. Start with the intuition, then introduce the notation. State the assumptions and give one small numerical example that I can verify by hand.

Use this when a formula makes sense symbolically but you don’t yet understand why it works.

2. Compare two ideas

Compare [idea A] and [idea B]. Explain what they share, where they differ, and one situation where confusing them would lead to a wrong answer. Keep the comparison specific to [context].

Try independence versus mutual exclusivity, a confidence interval versus a prediction interval, or frequency versus severity.

3. Challenge my reasoning

Here is my reasoning for a practice question: [your own non-confidential working]. Do not just give the final answer. Identify the first step that needs checking, explain why, and ask me a question that helps me repair it.

The aim is to find the gap, not to outsource the whole problem.

4. Build a revision conversation

Quiz me on [topic], one question at a time. Start with definitions, then ask me to apply them. Wait for my answer before continuing. If I make a mistake, explain the relevant principle and ask a related follow-up.

5. Review an explanation

Review this short explanation for a non-technical reader: [your text]. Point out jargon, unsupported claims, and missing assumptions. Suggest improvements without adding facts that are not in the original.

A practical safety checklist

• Use fictional or authorised, non-sensitive information.
• Verify sources: a plausible citation may not exist.
• Recalculate numerical examples independently.
• Look for unstated assumptions and overconfident conclusions.
• Keep responsibility for the final judgement with you.

These are general learning prompts, not professional advice or a substitute for exam rules, workplace policies, or technical review.