How to use ChatGPT to Save Time but Not Cheat

Are you a student looking to use ChatGPT to save time but not looking to cheat or miss out on valuable learning opportunities? Let's explore how students can honestly navigate this new tool:

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First, here are a few of my thoughts on ChatGPT. Most importantly, after seeing writing submissions written only by ChatGPT, I find it easy to tell when a student has simply plugged in a prompt and turned in an assignment using AI. It’s usually messy, doesn't follow the guidelines I've taught in class, there are errors, it’s completely lifeless, and it lacks critical thinking and creative thought. 

Therefore, I do not suggest using ChatGPT or AI for any writing production that you are trying to avoid doing yourself. 

1. Chat GPT’s output is not going to get you a good score and 

2. It will inhibit you from actually learning through the writing process 

"Don'ts" Summary:

Don’t use it for:  

• Writing an essay for you - creative, narrative, or analytical 

• Coming up with specific ideas (thematic statements) for essays or thesis statements 

• Finding specific word-for-word evidence in a text 

• Literary research or finding literary criticism that extends past basic information about an author or text 

"Do's" Summary"

Do use It for:  

1. Studying for an MCQ test, vocab, grammar or literary terms test on a novel: 

   1. Create example questions to test yourself - I love this one!

      1. Make sure to ask It to make the questions 1-2 grade level above yours

      2. Ask it to create specific types of questions about theme, plot, character, etc (think of questions your teacher has asked in class)

2. Organizing large chunks of information, especially when studying a particularly difficult essay or novel

   1. For example, one of my students is being tested on The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky - 895 pages!! If your teacher tests you on hundreds of pages of reading at a time, use ChatGPT (along with your reading) to make a study guide.

   2. Use this to refresh your memory on characters, plot, elements, and themes 

      1. Check for errors!! The only way to do this is to read the book too!! - This does not replace reading or even skimming the book.

3. Vocab or terms studying for SAT, ACT, AP LANG, AP LIT, etc

   
   

   Reminder: CHAT GPT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR READING THE BOOK 

   
   
   
   
   
   

What else have you used ChatGPT for In your English class? Let me know In the comments below!