u/cumvein

Generic prompts give generic answers, so I started writing mine with a role, constraints, and an output format. These three carried me through deadlines:

1. The 5-Minute Starter (for procrastination)
I need to start [task] but I'm avoiding it. Give me a ridiculously small 5-minute starting action that requires almost no motivation. Then give me the next 3 steps, each small enough to begin immediately. Do not give me a motivational speech.

2. The Assignment Decoder (for confusing briefs)
Act as my assignment coach. Analyze the assignment instructions below. Identify exactly what I must do, the required deliverables, key verbs such as 'analyze' or 'evaluate,' grading criteria I should pay attention to, and common mistakes to avoid. Then turn the instructions into a simple checklist.
Assignment: [paste instructions]

3. The Professor Email Drafter (for scary emails)
I need to email my professor or TA about [extension / clarification / office hours / absence]. My situation: [one honest sentence]. Draft a concise professional email with a clear subject line, polite opening, one-sentence request, and a short sign-off.

The pattern in all three: role + honest context + exact output format. Steal the structure, not just the words.

I organized all 54 into a library (essays, exams, planning, emails, focus/ADHD). Happy to drop the link if anyone wants it.

(wow I didn't expect this to blow up)

I've been writing my own ChatGPT prompts this semester because most lists online are useless ("act as a tutor"). These three carry me:

The 5-Minute Starter (for when you're avoiding a task) "I need to start [task] but I'm avoiding it. Give me a ridiculously small 5-minute starting action that requires almost no motivation. Then give me the next 3 steps, each small enough to begin immediately. Do not give me a motivational speech."

The Priority Matrix (for when everything is due at once) "Here is everything I need to do: [list]. Rank each task by urgency and importance. Categorize them as: do first, schedule, delegate/ask for help, or eliminate. Explain the reasoning briefly and create my top 3 priorities for today."

The Professor Email Drafter (for extensions you're scared to ask for) "I need to email my professor or TA about an extension. My situation: [one honest sentence]. Draft a concise professional email with a clear subject line, polite opening, one-sentence request, brief context, and a proposed next step. Keep it under 120 words and make it sound human, not AI-generated."

I organized all 54 prompts into a library. Comment "LIBRARY" and I'll send you the link.

What prompts are you actually going to use?