As someone who tests AI for a living, I use different AI tools for different reasons. For example, Gemini Canvas has been my go-to for working on manuscripts and Perplexity is great for real-time search.
But I always come back to ChatGPT to enhance my daily productivity. What makes ChatGPT stand out is its versatility. Whether I’m writing, brainstorming, organizing my day, or prepping for TV or radio interviews, it adapts to my needs without skipping a beat. It's like having an endlessly patient, super-intelligent assistant that gets better the more I use it — and honestly, I’d be lost without it.
Here are my 10 indispensable prompts that I use to make the most of this helpful AI tool.
1. Fact checking
Prompt: "Please confirm the facts in this [online news/trend/viral info]."
Using the search feature and often the Deep Research tool, I regularly check in on the information I'm seeing online. Whether it's a news story, an image, or a viral trend, I'm able to get to the botttom of what's real. Using ChatGPT to check the accuracy on just about anything has helped to keep me inform and discover the source of false information.
2. Using up leftovers
Prompt: "Here’s what I have in my fridge and pantry: [list ingredients]. Can you suggest 3 easy meal ideas I can make tonight?"
I use this way more than I like to admit. This prompt is awesome at the end of the day when my brain is fried and the whole family needs dinner.
All I have to do is let ChatGPT the types of food I have to work with (down to the pickles and bread crumbs) and it will come up with a crowd-pleasing idea in no time.
It’s like a real-life episode of Chopped and I’m the winner every time. This prompt is great for avoiding another sad dinner or last-minute takeout.
3. Make a boring task fun
Prompt: I need to [clean the garage / meal prep / write an expense report]. Can you turn it into a mini game, challenge, or funny theme to make it more fun?"
Because “Laundry Olympics” sounds way better than “fold the socks” and “speed space saver” is a lot more fun than “organizing the pantry,” this prompt is always full of surprises.
Whenever I ask ChatGPT to make a task more fun, I am always pleased by what the chatbot comes up with and then actually want to do the task. I’ve used this for my kids, too, but I’ve used it plenty of times for myself.
4. Simplify complex topics
Prompt: "Explain [complex topic] in simple terms, as if I'm 12 years old."
From tariffs to taxes, I am always looking to ChatGPT to help break things down into language that makes sense.
This prompt in particular breaks down intricate subjects to help grasp complicated concepts into quick bullet points or step-by-step instructions. I have used it countless times, particularly within the app when I’m out and about and need answers fast.
5. Being more mindful
Prompt: “Tell me something about myself that you think I don’t know.”
Because I regularly use ChatGPT, the chatbot has gotten to know me pretty well. Whether I’m chatting with it in Voice Mode or texting queries, it “gets” me.
Using this prompt has helped me see things about myself that I didn’t realize. The follow up questions have been life changing, to be honest. If you're a regular user, you may also want to try the prompt, "What's my most toxic trait." It's another eye-opener.
6. Writing support
Prompt: " Please review the following text for clarity, grammar, and overall impact: [insert text]."
Whether it’s an email to one of my kids’ teachers or an inquiry for an estimate on a new roof, ChatGPT always swoops in with the best ideas to make my writing sound clearer and gets the tone right.
If you’ve ever written an angry email and regretted sending it, next time run it by ChatGPT. It will help you get the message across just right and help avoid any embarrassing mistakes.
As someone who enjoys journaling (I've kept a journal every day since I was eight-years-old), I've also used ChatGPT to help with daily thought-starters.
Try it yourself with this prompt: "Ask me one meaningful question at a time to help me reflect on my thoughts, emotions, or goals today. After I answer, ask a thoughtful follow-up based on what I shared. Keep the tone supportive and curious — like a really good therapist-meets-creative-writing teacher.”
7. Summarize lengthy documents
Prompt: "Summarize the key points of the following document: [insert text]."
From home ownership to sports rules, I have used ChatGPT nearly every day to personally help me breeze through documents that I simply didn’t have time to read. The chatbot reads the document thoroughly and summarizes the information into bullet points.
I have also found it helpful to give it a document and then just start asking it questions. Like, “here read this for me.” It quickly distills information into useful takeaways.
8. Prepare for Interviews
Prompt: "Simulate an interview with [broadcast]. You are the interviewer, and I will respond. Provide feedback on my answers."
I became a writer because I have been painfully shy my entire life. Yet, as an AI writer, I am sometimes interviewed for television and radio.
To help prepare for interviews I do a dry run with ChatGPT first. It has helped me become so much more comfortable in situations that might otherwise be scary.
This prompt can be used for similar situations with job interviews, preparing for difficult conversations, or performance reviews. ChatGPT makes it easy to practice and refine your interview skills with realistic simulations.
9. Advice and decision making
Prompt: “I’m trying to decide between [Option A] and [Option B]. Help me weigh the pros and cons of each and recommend a choice based on [my priorities/criteria].”
If I really need advice and unbiased support when making a decision, I lean on ChatGPT. It takes all emotion out of the equation and just weighs the pros and cons.
Instead of asking a friend or family member (especially if the situation may involve them), I ask ChatGPT for the advice I need.
10. Time-saving to-do list
Prompt: “Based on these tasks [insert list], help me organize my day efficiently. Prioritize the most important/urgent tasks, estimate how long each task will take, and then help me build an easy-to-follow schedule so I get everything accomplished within [time frame]."
If you've ever been so busy you don't know which task to do first, this prompt is a life saver. It's perfect for those overwhelming mornings or afternoons when you haven't gotten through your to-do list.
This prompt turns chaos into a clear, actionable plan — and can help you feel more in control of your time.
Final thoughts
ChatGPT is a tool I frequently rely on to think more clearly, communicate more effectively, and stay organized in a world that’s constantly moving faster. These 10 prompts have become staples in my day-to-day routine, helping me not only save time but make better decisions and show up as the best version of myself.
Whether you’re new to AI or already use it daily, starting with just a few of these prompts could transform the way you work, plan, and reflect. If you’re not tapping into its potential yet — now’s the time.
