After a long session working through a big problem with the robot I stopped to take a break. A question came to mind when I returned back to the desk and asked how most people use AI. It replied: “Most people use AI like a vending machine.” My mind went immediately to that Apple commerical with the nimrod who turns a fifth-grade-level text into a polished business email.
It would seem that a majority of robot users are doing their damndest to make the backstory of WALL-E come to fruition sooner than later. Here’s the problem: when you only use advanced technology for low-hanging fruit, you’re not just wasting its potential—you’re atrophying your own. Without developing curiosity and fundamental skills today’s magical results will turn mediocre.
I turned back to the robot and asked it for the top twenty-five requests it gets from most users. With list in hand, I paired each prompt with an analog solution guaranteed to build brain cells.
Instead of prompting...
Read...
And use...
Write a blog post about [topic].
A vintage Smith-Corona typewriter
Summarize this article or text in simple terms.
A pack of fluorescent Stabilo Boss highlighters
Explain [complex concept] like I’m five.
A whiteboard and dry-erase markers
Write an email for [specific purpose], such as a follow-up or introduction.
Stationery kits from Crane & Co.
Generate a Python script to [perform a task].
Keychron K6 Mechanical Keyboard
Help me debug this code snippet: [insert code].
The red pill
Translate this text into [language].
Practice charades
Draft a professional cover letter for [job title].
Send an Edible Arranagement
Give me a list of creative social media captions for [platform].
A brainstorming whiteboard and markers
Write a short story based on this prompt: [insert idea].
A Moleskine notebook and a pen from Baron Fig
Help me brainstorm ideas for [specific project or task].
Post-it notes and a purple Sharpie
Create a meal plan for [dietary preference].
A sturdy magnet and a print out of your meal plan the fridge
Provide a summary of [book, report, or movie].
A well lit room and a note card
Suggest trivia questions for a quiz night on [topic].
Trivial Pursuit Classic Edition
Simulate a conversation with [character or historical figure].
A therapist
Write a poem about [topic or theme].
Listen to The Marshall Mathers LP 2 on repeat until you get it
Generate a SQL query to [retrieve or analyze data].
An Excel spreadsheet for basic data analysis
What are the pros and cons of [specific idea, trend, or technology]?
Several walks in a park
Help me plan a travel itinerary for [destination].
A physical map
Draft a professional thank-you note for [specific situation].
A set of high-quality thank-you cards
Explain how [technology or scientific concept] works.
A science kit or Mentos and Diet Coke
Optimize this code for better performance.
A stopwatch
Help me create a daily schedule to boost productivity.
Get out of bed before 6AM
Write a persuasive speech about [topic].
Review every ShamWow infomercial
Provide tips for preparing for [specific exam, test, or event].
Flashcards and six Prime Energy drinks
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