Tips for using AI in your studies
GenAI can be a powerful learning tool when used responsibly. Here are safe and creative ways to use GenAI to support your studies and achieve much more than just shortcuts.
Instead of asking GenAI to complete academic work for you, use it to practise skills, build confidence, manage your time, and deepen your understanding of important concepts.
Example prompts for study
GenAI can help you plan your week and create a study routine that suits your schedule.
How it helps
It structures your time and provides clarity so you can focus on your tasks. This reduces stress and helps you to stay on track.
Simple example prompt
“Help me create a weekly study plan. Ask me about my subjects, work hours, and other commitments, then suggest a balanced schedule. Format it into a table.”
More complex example prompt
“Help me design a study routine for the next four weeks.
- Step 1: Ask me questions about my subjects, deadlines, work hours, commute time, and preferred study times.
- Step 2: Suggest a weekly structure based on my answers, including recommended blocks for reading, revision, and practice activities.
- Step 3: Create a colour-coded timetable I can copy into my calendar.
- Step 4: Give me three strategies to help me stick to the routine during busy weeks.”
GenAI can break down complex concepts, offer explanations in simple language, or provide different ways of understanding a topic.
How it helps
You can explore ideas from new angles which helps strengthen your understanding of them.
Simple example prompt
“Explain the idea of opportunity cost in simple terms, then give me an everyday example.”
More complex example prompt
"Explain the concept of cognitive load using simple language. Then:
- Give me a metaphor or analogy to help me remember it.
- Show me how the concept applies in everyday study situations.
- Ask me two questions to check my understanding.
- Suggest one way I could use this knowledge to improve my study habits.”
GenAI can help you interpret task instructions, clarify expectations, or break large tasks into logical steps.
How it helps
Understanding what is required before you begin work builds your confidence to get started.
Simple example prompt
“Help me break down a large study task into smaller steps. Ask me questions first, then suggest a simple plan.”
More complex example prompt
“I have a large study task and need help breaking it down.
- Step 1: Ask me what the task involves, the due date, and what resources I already have.
- Step 2: Suggest a step-by-step plan with approximate timeframes for each stage.
- Step 3: Ask me what parts I find most challenging.
- Step 4: Provide targeted strategies for those challenges, such as getting started, choosing sources, or managing distractions."
As part of your revision for exams or quizzes, ask GenAI to generate practice questions, flashcards, or short quizzes on the topic.
How it helps
Testing yourself boosts memory and is one of the most effective ways to study.
Simple example prompt
“Create five multiple-choice questions to help me revise the key ideas of classical conditioning.”
More complex example prompt
“I am revising the topic of classical conditioning. Can you:
- Ask me what specific sub-topics I want to focus on.
- Create a mixed set of 10 practice questions (multiple choice, short-answer, and ‘explain in your own words’ prompts).
- Give me the answers separately so I can test myself first.
- Create five digital flashcards I can copy into a study app.
- Suggest a short revision plan based on my weaker areas."
GenAI can help you identify strategies to stay organised, manage stress, and stay motivated during busy weeks.
How it helps
Maintaining consistent study habits supports your well-being, helping you pace yourself so that you do not become fatigued.
Simple example prompt
“Give me five practical strategies to stay motivated during long study weeks.”
More complex example prompt
“I want to stay motivated during a very busy month.
- Step 1: Ask me about my current routine, stress points, and what usually derails my study.
- Step 2: Suggest a personalised motivation plan that includes daily habits, small rewards, and realistic goals.
- Step 3: Create three positive study scripts I can use when I feel stuck.
- Step 4: Give me two evidence-based techniques for reducing stress during intense study periods.”
GenAI can help you explore different viewpoints, analyse arguments, or practise evaluating information.
How it helps
It supports deeper thinking, helping you question your assumptions, assess evidence and make more informed choices.
Simple example prompt
“Give me two different perspectives on whether online learning improves access to education. Then ask me three questions to help me evaluate each perspective.”
More complex example prompt
“Help me practise critical thinking about technology and society.
- Step 1: Present two contrasting viewpoints on how social media influences wellbeing.
- Step 2: For each viewpoint, outline the assumptions, strengths, and limitations.
- Step 3: Ask me three reflective questions to deepen my analysis.
- Step 4: Give me a checklist I can use when evaluating arguments in any topic.”