I’ve been playing with AI tools for more than the last couple of years, and one thing I learned is: asking the right question is more powerful than knowing the answer. Prompts are not just commands; they are tools to think better, learn faster, and solve problems smarter.
In this post, I share 10 prompt ideas that helped me, and others accelerate learning. You can use them with any AI tool or even just for your own thinking process.
1. Make a Prompt Generator
If you want to learn something fast, start by learning how to ask better questions.
Prompt idea: “I want to create effective prompts for (topic/task). Generate 10 detailed and creative prompt ideas that I can use to get the best result from (AI tool). Each prompt should be specific and focused on (desired outcome).”
This helps you build your own prompt library and improve your thinking.
2. Use the 80/20 Principle
Not everything is important. Focus on the 20% that gives 80% of the results.
Prompt idea: “Using the 80/20 rule, what are the key concepts in (subject) that I should focus on to get the most useful knowledge?”
This saves time and helps you learn what really matters.
3. Build a Mental Model
Mental models are like shortcuts for thinking. They help you understand complex things faster.
Prompt idea: “Create a mental model for (topic). Use analogies, diagrams, and step-by-step logic to explain it.”
This makes abstract ideas easier to remember and apply.
4. Reverse Engineer a Skill
Sometimes the best way to learn is to break things down.
Prompt idea: “Break down the skill of (e.g., writing, coding, negotiation) into smaller parts. What are the micro-skills and how can I practice each one?”
This helps you learn by understanding how things work.
5. Teach Me Like I’m 5
If you can explain something simply, you really understand it.
Prompt idea: “Explain (topic) to a 5-year-old. Use simple words, examples, and analogies.”
This is great for clarity and deep understanding.
6. Try It, Tweak It
Learning is not just theory — it’s testing and adjusting.
Prompt idea: “Give me 3 different ways to solve (problem/task). What are the pros and cons of each?”
This helps you explore options and think critically.
7. Create a Learning Roadmap
Learning is easier when you have a plan.
Prompt idea: “Build a 30-day learning roadmap for (topic). Include steps, resources, and checkpoints.”
This gives structure and keeps you motivated.
8. Ask Deep Questions
Good questions lead to better thinking.
Prompt idea: “Ask me 5 deep questions about (topic) that challenge my assumptions and help me think differently.”
This helps you go beyond surface-level understanding.
9. Learn Visually
Sometimes a picture is better than a paragraph.
Prompt idea: “Turn (concept) into a visual diagram or infographic. Use metaphors or symbols to make it easy to remember.”
This is perfect for visual learners and creative thinkers.
10. Reflect and Improve
Learning is not complete without reflection.
Prompt idea: “What did I learn today? What was difficult? What will I do differently next time?”
This helps you grow and improve continuously.
Conclusion
These prompts are not just about AI they are for your brain. Use them to learn faster, think better, and solve problems smarter. You don’t need to be an expert to start. Just pick one, try it, and see how it changes your way of learning.
These ideas were inspired by a post I saw on Instagram from @mindset.therapy. I liked the concept and wanted to turn it into a full blog post.