Copy, change, check
12 everyday AI prompts for complete beginners
These prompts are starting points, not magic words. Replace the text in square brackets, leave out private information and check the result before using it.
How to use this page
Give the task, useful details and the shape of the answer
A useful prompt usually says what you need, what could change the answer and how the result should be presented. If the first answer is not right, ask for one change rather than starting again.
Use placeholders for private details
Write “[name]”, “[town]” or “[appointment date]” in the prompt. Add the real detail yourself after you copy the result out of the AI service.
Writing and communication
Draft something you can review yourself
1. Friendly invitation
Write a warm, informal message inviting [number] friends for [activity] on [day]. Ask whether [time] suits them. Keep it under 100 words.
2. Make writing clearer
Rewrite the text below in plain English. Keep the meaning, use short sentences and point out anything that is unclear. Text: [paste non-sensitive text]
3. Prepare a phone call
Help me prepare for a phone call about [general topic]. Give me five questions to ask and a simple opening sentence. Do not invent account-specific advice.
Planning and organising
Turn a blank page into a draft plan
4. Packing list
Create a packing checklist for a [number]-day trip to [general destination] in [month]. I expect [weather/activity]. Group it into documents, clothes, toiletries and useful extras.
5. Weekly meal ideas
Suggest five simple evening meals for [number] people. Avoid [ingredient]. Use ordinary supermarket ingredients and include a combined shopping list. I will check dietary and medical suitability myself.
6. Questions for an appointment
Help me prepare general questions for an appointment about [topic]. Do not diagnose or recommend treatment. Group the questions under symptoms, options, risks and next steps.
Learning and hobbies
Ask for explanations, practice and ideas
7. Plain-English explanation
Explain [topic] to a complete beginner in plain English. Define new terms, use one everyday example and finish with three questions I can use to check my understanding.
8. Practise a language
Have a short beginner conversation with me in [language] about [topic]. Use one sentence at a time, wait for my reply and gently explain any correction in English.
9. Hobby project
Suggest three small [gardening/craft/photography] projects I can finish in under [time]. For each, list what I need, the first three steps and one common mistake.
Thinking and checking
Use AI to explore, then verify
10. Compare options
Help me compare [option A] and [option B] for [low-risk purpose]. Make a table using cost, effort, convenience and drawbacks. Mark facts that may have changed and need checking.
11. Find weaknesses
Review this draft plan and identify missing steps, assumptions and questions I should answer. Do not make the decision for me. Plan: [paste non-sensitive plan]
12. Create a verification list
Turn the answer below into a fact-checking checklist. Separate claims I can verify from opinions or suggestions, and tell me what kind of reliable source would confirm each claim. Answer: [paste text]
Before using the result
Read it like a draft from a stranger
- ✓Does it answer the task you actually set?
- ✓Are names, dates, prices and factual claims correct?
- ✓Does it sound like you, and is anything inappropriate or insensitive?
- ✓Would a mistake matter? If yes, verify elsewhere or ask a qualified person.