Listen - we know you’re already using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) to help with your academic life. But are you using these tools effectively? Here are a few creative (and ethical) ways you can use GenAI.
As a UWaterloo student, you have free access to Microsoft Copilot, just by logging in using your WatIAM credentials. Copilot is the University’s recommended GenAI resource; it’s free to use, and it protects your (and the University’s) privacy in a way other tools do not.
Tip #1 - Create study hacks
Let’s imagine you’re studying for a final chemistry exam. You’re going to be tested on the ten essential amino acids, and you’ll need to memorize each of them. You can ask Copilot for an easy way to remember them.
- Sample prompt: “Can you find an easy way to help me remember the nine essential amino acids? Try to make it related to cats so I can easily remember it!”
- The result: When we ran this prompt, Copilot gave a simple mnemonic device to remember the 9 amino acids: “Happy Cats Like Mice, Purring Through Velvet Tunnels Lightly” (where the first letter of each word stands for one of the nine essential amino acids).
Hint:Always double-checked Copilot’s work. It’s powerful, but it’s not always accurate.
Tip #2 - Map an effective study schedule
Need to study for two midterms scheduled for the same week? You'll want to know the best way to manage your time given the dates, the weight of each exam, and how much material they will cover.
- Sample prompt: “I have a history exam in 10 days, and a political science exam in 7 days. The history exam is worth 10% of my overall grade and covers chapters 6-10 of my textbook. The political science exam is worth 10% but covers more chapters: chapters 3-9. I can only study between 3pm and 5pm. Can you create a good study schedule for me for the next 10 days, considering the weight of each exam and which chapters to study when?”
- The result: Copilot created a handy study schedule, breaking down which chapters to cover in each study session over the next ten days. It balances study time between both subjects, ensuring all necessary chapters are covered before each exam.
A few of my favourite GenAI prompts for supporting my study prep
- Can you explain this topic to me as if I was 10 years old?
- I'm having trouble understanding how these concepts fit together. Can you generate a mind map to explain it?
- I have a term paper that is due in two weeks. In order for me to finish my paper by [x] date, create a schedule that outlines what I need to get done each day.
Tip #3 - Test your knowledge of a topic
Assume you stick to Copilot’s study schedule and feel ready to write your history midterm. Consider using it next to test your knowledge and to anticipate the kinds of questions you could expect.
- Sample prompt: “I have an exam coming up in my World War I history class. Come up with possible exam questions, ask me one at a time, and let me know if my answers are good.”
- The result: Just like we asked, Copilot gave one question at a time, indicating which components were correct, as well as some tips on how to strengthen our answers. This is a great way to find gaps in your knowledge.
Tip #4 – Choose the right words for an assignment
You’re revising a research assignment for a course before handing it in, and you notice a lot of repetition. Consider using Copilot like a thesaurus to identify alternative words or phrases for the exact context you need.
- Sample prompt: “What are alternative terms for ‘knowledge translation’ in science? Provide example sentences for each option.”
- The result: Copilot generated several alternative ways to refer to the concept ‘knowledge translation’ (such as “knowledge mobilization”) and included sample sentences for contexts in the field of science to show me use of each term in different situations. From these results, I chose alternate terms that are appropriate for the text I’m writing.
Hint: See the Writing and Communication Centre’s guide to Using GenAI in the Writing Process on how to use these tools for writing assignments.
A few of my favourite GenAI prompts for supporting my professional development
- I'm applying for [title of position] with the following details [details of position]. What are some skills that I should highlight on my resume?
- Can you help me create an Excel sheet that tracks all the jobs I have applied for and lets me track responses from the employer and my subsequent follow-up?
- Help me create a 60-second elevator pitch for networking and interviews.
Tip #5 - Prepare for a co-op interview
You’re busy with all your coursework and the next thing you know, it’s co-op hiring season. You have an interview, and you want to nail it. Consider using Copilot to help you anticipate the kinds of interview questions you will be asked so you feel prepared.
- Sample prompt: "I have an interview for a co-op software engineer position in two weeks. Can you help me come up with interview questions I should prepare to be asked?"
- The result: Copilot generated a range of technical, situational and behavioural questions, and even provided tips on other ways to prepare for the interview, like being prepared to discuss my projects, and to practice the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioural questions.
Hint: You can also leverage Copilot to help you create clear and concise responses to the questions. Just make sure you're adjusting them to match your personality and that they reflect the skills you can bring to the position.
Tip #6 - Craft a professional email to your professor
You’re nearing the end of your second year and want to get involved in real research. You want to find a volunteer or paid position with a professor in their lab. Use Copilot to draft a professional email asking about upcoming opportunities.
- Sample prompt: "I am an undergraduate student in biology with a 78% average grade. I am entering my third year next year and want the opportunity to gain research experience. Can you craft me a template email I can use to ask professors if they have any opportunities for a lab worker or volunteer so I can gain research experience?"
- The result: Copilot crafted a great email template, including a recommended subject line, a reminder to attach a resume, and it even offered suggestions of ways to customize the email, so the professor knows I understand their area of research and expertise.
Hint: Personalize the email. It’s important to create an authentic connection, especially if you want to build a rapport with the recipient. Check if the GenAI email is accurate, if it contains the details you want, and if it’s in your personal voice before clicking send.
While these tips are helpful, they may not be suitable in all situations. Different professors have different rules for what is permissible in terms of using GenAI for course assessments (like writing essays or code). Consult your syllabus or your instructor directly to be sure you complete all your course assessments with academic integrity.