Use Case: Struggling to understand how to accomplish a task you've been given or don't know where to start; have limited time and a task/goal you need to complete; have a goal for yourself but need help following through/accomplishing it.

Prompt: "I need help setting, planning, and achieving my goal of [insert specific goal/task] by [deadline]. Start by asking questions to clarify my objectives, then based on my answers you will create an actionable, step-by-step plan with a realistic timeline."

Things to Consider and Do: Setting goals is easy, but achieving them? Not so much—especially when you try to do it on your own. This prompt turns ChatGPT into your personal coach, propelling you toward your goals faster than ever. Here's how:

Specify exactly what you want to achieve. Replace [insert specific goal] with a clear, detailed objective.
Ground your goal in reality by setting a timeframe. Change [deadline] to when you hope to reach your goal, like "in 6 months" or "by next summer."
When the AI tool asks questions, provide as much detail as you can. Your answers will sharpen the focus and utility of your plan.
After you've sent your answers back to an AI tool, it will create a personalized step-by-step plan for you to achieve your goal!
Don't take what it says at face-value. Think critically, check outside sources for accuracy, and ask more questions about the details if needed.

Turn this tailored action plan into the roadmap to your success. Should your goal or circumstances change, revisit and revise your plan with an AI tool.

This prompt and advice is courtesy of Igor Pogany. Found from his AI Advantage Newsletter

Example

Prompt: I need help setting, planning, and achieving my goal of graduating from college within 4 years. Start by asking questions to clarify my objectives, then based on my answers you will create an actionable, step-by-step plan with a realistic timeline.

Example Output (from gemini):

Great! Graduating in 4 years is a fantastic goal. To create the most effective plan, let's get a clearer picture of your situation:

1. Major & School: What is your current major (or potential major) and the university you'll be attending (if known)? Knowing these will help tailor the plan to specific requirements.
2. Previous Credits: Do you have any prior college credits (from AP exams, community college, etc.) that could count towards graduation?
3. Course Load Preference: How comfortable are you with a heavy course load? Taking 15 credits per semester (typical full-time) is ideal for 4-year graduation, but some prefer a lighter load (12 credits).
4. Summer Availability: Are you open to taking summer classes to get ahead? This can be a great way to accelerate your progress.
5. Academic Support Needs: Do you anticipate needing any academic support services like tutoring or writing centers?

By answering these questions, we can build a personalized plan that considers your academic background, comfort level, and resources available.

Prompt:

Sociology at the university of nebraska at Omaha
No previous credits
15 credits always
Not available in the summer as I need to work and make money
I will need some tutoring help for writing and math.

Example Output:

Excellent! Here's a step-by-step plan to graduate with a Sociology degree from UNO in 4 years, considering your preferences:

Year 1 (Fall & Spring Semester):

- Credits: 15 credits per semester (30 total)
- Focus: General Education (GE) & College Breadth Requirements
  - UNO requires 46 hours of General Education courses across various areas like English, Math, Science, etc. UNO General Education
  - Additionally, the College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) has specific "College Breadth Requirements" (12-19 hours).
- Planning:
  - Meet with your academic advisor as soon as possible. They'll help you navigate requirements and create a personalized plan.
  - Utilize UNO's DegreeWorks tool to track your progress towards graduation.
  - Schedule a meeting with the UNO Writing Center and Math Lab to discuss tutoring options.
  - Explore introductory Sociology courses to get a feel for the major.

Year 2 (Fall & Spring Semester):

- Credits: 15 credits per semester (30 total)
- Focus: Continue GE & College Breadth Requirements + Begin Sociology Major Courses
  - Prioritize completing remaining GE and College Breadth requirements based on your interests and advisor's recommendations.
  - Start taking introductory Sociology courses (e.g., Introduction to Sociology, Sociological Research Methods).

Year 3 (Fall & Spring Semester):

- Credits: 15 credits per semester (30 total)
- Focus: Sociology Major Courses + Electives
  - Focus on completing core Sociology courses and electives within the major. Discuss options with your advisor to ensure alignment with your interests.
  - Consider taking a lighter load (12 credits) in one semester if needed to manage work and academics effectively.

Year 4 (Fall Semester):

- Credits: 12-15 credits (depending on remaining requirements)
- Focus: Completing Major Requirements & Graduation
  - Finish any remaining Sociology courses and electives.
  - Ensure all university, college, and major requirements are fulfilled.
  - Apply for graduation in the designated timeframe (typically during the previous semester).

Additional Tips:

- Stay Organized: Maintain a planner or calendar to track deadlines, assignments, and important dates.
- Time Management: Develop good time management skills to balance academics, work, and personal life.
- Seek Help: Don't hesitate to utilize tutoring services and academic support resources provided by UNO.
- Communication: Maintain open communication with your advisor regarding academic progress and any challenges you face.

Remember: This is a general plan. You might need to adjust it based on course offerings, your academic performance, and any unexpected situations. It's crucial to stay flexible and communicate with your advisor throughout your journey.

Prompt: What are college breadth requirements

Example Output:

College breadth requirements, also sometimes called distribution requirements, are a set of courses designed to ensure you get a well-rounded education outside your major. They typically span across different academic disciplines like humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.

Here's a breakdown of what college breadth requirements aim to achieve:

- Exposure to Diverse Fields: Broaden your knowledge base by taking courses outside your major's specific focus. This can spark new interests or connections between disciplines.
- Critical Thinking Skills: Completing coursework in various areas helps develop critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills applicable across different fields.
- Communication Skills: Breadth requirements often include writing and communication courses, honing your written and verbal communication skills crucial for academic and professional success.
- Fulfilling General Education: These requirements often overlap with general education courses, ensuring you gain foundational knowledge in core academic areas.

Specific Requirements will Vary:

It's important to note that the specific breadth requirements will vary depending on the university and the College or department within the university where your major resides.

How to Find Your Requirements:

- University Catalog: The most reliable source for breadth requirements is your university's academic catalog. This is usually a downloadable PDF document outlining all degree programs, course descriptions, and graduation requirements. Search for terms like "breadth requirements," "distribution requirements," or "general education requirements."
- Academic Advisor: Your academic advisor is an excellent resource to understand specific breadth requirements for your major and college. They can help you navigate course selection and ensure you fulfill all graduation needs.