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GenAI for students: how to use generative AI to boost study skills
8 ways generative AI can help you study
Beginning university and studying in general can be a daunting task. Although AI cannot do your course for you, it can become a go-to study buddy when needed, helping you level up your academic skills.
Find out how you can get the most out of GenAI with these top tips and prompts from Generative AI for Students.
1. Start with self-reflection
Before diving into the GenAI tools and applications, take a moment to reflect on your current study habits, challenges, and goals. Understanding your starting point makes it easier to identify how Generative AI can best serve your needs.
2. Customise your AI study buddy
AI assistants can offer a more personalised experience but will need some information from you first -- ask your preferred GenAI assistant what it needs to know to help you study better. Input details about your study preferences, goals, and challenges to tailor the AI’s support to your unique needs. Then, you're ready to harness your study buddy for support.
Prompt: Study buddy
Role: you are to act as an expert teacher in [enter subject]. You are going to be my study coach.
Task: you are to review the following input [text/document/image etc] and summarise key points.
Format: produce a series of resources as [Flashcards/quizzes] that will aid me in learning the content.
3. Leverage AI for efficient research
Use AI-powered tools to streamline your literature searches and source gathering. These tools can help you find relevant research faster, leaving you more time to focus on analysis and study.
Prompt: Generating key search terms
INPUT:
I am a university student and need suggestions for the top ten key terms to search in relation to [enter topic/subject/assignment focus].
4. Enhance assessments with GenAI
Experiment with AI assistants to help you understand your assignments, and even improve the structure, clarity and coherence of your academic writing. These tools can help you get started, provide suggestions for improvement and even help with grammar and style.
Prompt: Starting an assignment
INPUT:
I am a university student and have a [enter type of assignment] to start. Break down, step by step, where I should begin and what I need to do in order to complete it successfully.
5. Develop critical thinking with AI-generated perspectives
Engage with AI-generated simulations and scenarios to challenge your understanding and encourage deeper learning. These interactive experiences can be a fun and effective way to enhance critical thinking, consider different viewpoints and build analytical skills.
6. Stay ethical and authentic
While leveraging AI for study assistance, remain vigilant about maintaining academic integrity. Use AI as a tool for enhancement, not as a substitute for your own critical thinking and creativity.
7. Prepare for the AI-assisted future
Stay informed about the latest developments in AI and education. Being adaptable and open to new tools and methods will ensure you remain at the forefront of learning innovations.
8. Balance AI use with self-care
While AI can significantly enhance study efficiency, it’s essential to balance technology use with regular breaks, physical activity and social interactions to maintain overall well-being.
Prompt: Time management
INPUT:
I am a university student preparing for an assignment titled [enter title here]. It is due on [enter due date]. The date today is [enter today's date]. Please talk me through a step-by-step process that will enable me to manage my time efficiently.
This is an adapted extract from Generative AI for Students by David Meechan. Learn more: