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
Write a warm, informal message inviting [number] friends for [activity] on [day]. Ask whether [time] suits them. Keep it under 100 words.
Before you use the answer: Check the day and time, then add names in your messaging app. Ask for a shorter version if it feels too formal.
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]
Before you use the answer: Compare the rewrite with the original. Check that it has not removed a condition or changed what you meant.
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.
Before you use the answer: Keep account numbers out of the chat. Cross out questions that do not apply before making the call.
Planning and organising
Turn a blank page into a draft plan
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.
Before you use the answer: Check the forecast and baggage rules yourself. Do not share your booking reference or an exact home address.
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.
Before you use the answer: Check ingredients and quantities before shopping. Do not rely on AI to confirm that a meal is safe for an allergy.
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.
Before you use the answer: Keep medical records and identifying details out of the chat. Take the questions to the professional; use their advice for decisions.
Learning and hobbies
Ask for explanations, practice and ideas
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.
Before you use the answer: Check the explanation against a reliable source. Ask for another example if a term is still unclear.
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.
Before you use the answer: Check unfamiliar words in a trusted dictionary. Tell the AI your preferred regional variety of the language.
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.
Before you use the answer: Check the materials and instructions before starting. Ask for an alternative if a step needs unfamiliar equipment.
Thinking and checking
Use AI to explore, then verify
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.
Before you use the answer: Check prices and product details on the provider’s site. Tell the AI which comparison matters most to you.
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]
Before you use the answer: Decide which suggestions fit your circumstances. Ask it to separate essential steps from optional improvements.
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 you use the answer: Open the original sources yourself. A checklist organises the checking; it does not prove that the claims are true.
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.
Keep a useful prompt for next time
Bookmark this page using your browser’s bookmark or favourites menu. Each numbered example also has its own link so you can save the one you use most. To keep a paper copy, use your browser’s Print option and choose a printer or Save as PDF.
Try one writing prompt today, a planning prompt next time and a learning prompt after that. If you want a guided routine, the free five-lesson course can remember completed lessons on this browser.