ChatGPT has quickly become one of the most versatile AI tools. From image generation to ChatGPT Search, the usefulness of OpenAI’s chatbot seems endless. But how do you unlock its full potential? Effectively using ChatGPT is all about asking the right questions.
After experimenting with the chatbot across a range of tasks, I have discovered that certain prompts can maximize its usefulness and efficiency. In other words, the right prompts ensure the best responses while avoiding the need for extra prompts or follow-up questions. Here are seven prompts I use regularly to get the most out of ChatGPT, and how you can use them too.
1. Brainstorming creative ideas
Prompt: "I need help brainstorming ideas for [a topic, product, or project]. Can you provide 10 unique ideas or approaches, and briefly explain each?"
ChatGPT is like having a brainstorming partner who never runs out of ideas. Whatever you need help brainstorming (as long as its legal), ChatGPT will come through with ideas to help. In this example, I asked it for teacher gifts on a budget. I’ve highlighted a few of my favorite ideas in the image above. By asking ChatGPT rather than a general web search, I was able to get plenty of ideas and a short explanation about them. The best part? No ads. Plus, ChatGPT’s suggestions include angles that I hadn’t even considered, sparking new creative ideas that hadn’t previously occurred to me.
If you are having trouble coming up with ideas or stuck down a web search rabbit hole, try using this prompt. It can save you hours of brainstorming.
2. Learning complex topics
Prompt: ""Explain [topic] to me as if I were [a beginner, a college student, or an expert]. Provide examples or analogies to help me understand better."
Breaking down complex topics is another area where ChatGPT shines. In this example, I asked ChatGPT to explain the electoral college to me as if I were five years old. You can tailor the prompts including words such as beginner, college student, or professional, to yield responses according to your specific needs. Regardless of the learning level you choose, you can expect clear and engaging responses.
Because I asked for the response to be relatable to a young child, ChatGPT used a more applicable example aimed at someone with limited knowledge. The chatbot gave a perfect analogy to break down the complex topic. The ability to customize the difficulty of the explanation makes ChatGPT an excellent learning tool for people of all levels, from curious beginners to individuals looking for a refresher.
3. Optimizing productivity and workflows
Prompt: "Help me optimize my workflow for [a specific task or project]. Suggest tools, strategies, or AI-assisted solutions that can save time or improve quality."
To streamline your productivity, try using ChatGPT as your efficiency coach. This prompt will not disappoint when it comes to improving personal productivity or professional workflows.
For this example, I asked ChatGPT to help me optimize workflow for getting three young children out the door by 8 am each morning. The AI suggested practical tools and ideas that never crossed my mind. The detailed instructions for each stage of morning preparation, including a backup plan for emergencies, is why this prompt works for optimizing productivity. ChatGPT offers suggestions that you may not have thought of, while covering all angles of possibilities. For me, a prompt like this is especially useful because it breaks down what feels like a large, overwhelming task into checklists.
With its guidance, I restructured my morning in ways that saved me time and minimized tantrums, proving that AI is a valuable asset for anyone juggling multiple responsibilities.
4. Writing assistance
Prompt: "I need help writing [type of content, e.g., a blog post, a persuasive email, or a professional bio]. Here's the topic/goal: [describe it]. Can you create an outline or a first draft for me?"
ChatGPT is a game-changer when it comes to writing. For example, I needed to create a bio about me for a presentation I’m giving to global marketers. Using this prompt, ChatGPT quickly generated a professional yet friendly bio. Although I didn’t do it this time, you can also ask ChatGPT for a particular word count. This is especially helpful if you’re looking to produce content for a website, social media platform, or to fit within a specific space on something like a brochure.
If you use ChatGPT for content creation for an email, for example, it will even suggest ways to make your message more engaging, such as adding a personalized opening line and a clear call to action. Whether you’re stuck on an email, blog post, or even a personal statement, this prompt can help you kickstart the writing process and produce polished content in no time.
5. Personalized recommendations
Prompt: "Based on my [situation, preferences, or needs], can you recommend [books, movies, strategies, tools, etc.] and explain why they might be a good fit?"
Sometimes, ChatGPT feels like a true personal assistant. This is a prompt I use when I’m feeling anxious, stressed or stuck. For this example, I asked it to recommend some shows to stream this weekend because I want to relax and laugh. The AI provided a fun list of favorite shows — ones I’ve seen and others I haven’t — to enjoy. As a bonus, it even told me the network where I can find each show.
I have found that, when using this prompt, the recommendations are almost always tailored to my needs and often include extra, helpful information. Whether you’re searching for the best books to read, tools for a hobby, or ways to achieve a personal goal, this prompt makes ChatGPT a go-to resource for tailored suggestions.
6. Problem-solving and decision making
Prompt: "I'm facing [specific challenge or decision]. Can you provide a step-by-step plan to address this issue, including potential risks and how to mitigate them?
One of the reasons I go to ChatGPT to help with decision making, is that it helps me think logically while taking out some of the emotion that might cloud my thinking. For this prompt example, I asked ChatGPT for help deciding the best way to plan a basement renovation. It suggested considerations that never crossed my mind such as assessing the current conditions for structural concerns and mold. Now, whether we renovate the basement or not, this is something I want to look into.
Of course, the chatbot is not perfect, and definitely left out a lot more to consider with a big decision such as this one. However, it got the ball rolling with ideas, making this prompt helpful for a variety of reasons. The chatbot breaks down complex problems into manageable steps, adding new perspective and solutions that are useable and easy to understand.
7. For learning new skills
Prompt: "I want to learn [specific skill or topic]. Can you create a 30-day learning plan with daily activities or tasks to help me master the basics?"
Whether you want to run a 5K or learn to play the trumpet, ChatGPT can provide a roadmap tailored to fit your personal goals. The example that I've used here asks ChatGPT to help set up a plan to further my graphic design skills. The AI came through with a day-by-day plan to reach my goals.
This prompt is one I recommend users try when they want a structured plan to help them stay on track. I even suggest trying it if you are simply thinking about starting a new hobby, routine, or course. The chatbot gives you an overview, which can be helpful to see the "big picture." And for those who actually do get started, tackling a new skill incrementally is a good way to stay motivated.
Bottom line
ChatGPT isn’t just a tool for answering questions. It’s a powerful assistant that can spark creativity, enhance learning and help streamline your life. These seven prompts helped me unlock its full potential, and they can do the same for you. Whether you’re brainstorming new ideas, learning something complex, improving your productivity or seeking personalized recommendations, ChatGPT is ready to assist.
Remember, no chatbot is perfect. The key is to ask specific, open-ended questions, then let the AI showcase its capabilities. Give these prompts a try, and you’ll see just how much ChatGPT can elevate your everyday tasks and projects.
More from Tom's Guide
- I put Apple Image Playground to the test, and it's much better than expected
- I used Apple’s Visual Intelligence with ChatGPT to count calories — here’s how
- Prime Video just got a big AI upgrade — meet X-Ray recaps
