A free prompt library for everyday life
These are real, copy-and-paste prompts for the everyday jobs most people actually use AI for. Replace the parts in [square brackets] with your own details, then paste the whole thing into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Copilot.
Two rules to keep you safe, every time:
- Shape with it, verify its facts. Use AI freely to shape words and plans. Check anything it presents as a fact before you rely on it.
- Never share passwords, bank, card or ID numbers, or other people’s private details. If a prompt does not need it, leave it out.
Writing emails and letters
A difficult email, kept calm
Help me write a short, [calm and polite / firm but fair] email to [who it is to] about [the situation]. I want to [your goal]. Keep it under [120] words and do not sound [angry / pushy].
A reply you are not sure how to handle
Here is an email I received: [paste it]. Help me write a [polite / brief / firm] reply that [what you want to happen]. Give me two versions, one warmer and one more formal.
A complaint that gets results
Write a complaint to [company] about [problem]. Include what happened, the date, what I have already tried, and what I want them to do. Keep it factual and reasonable, not emotional.
Understanding long or confusing documents
Explain it like I am new to it
Explain this in plain English, as if I am new to it: [paste the text]. Then tell me the three things I most need to know, and anything I should be careful about.
A lease, policy or contract
Summarise this [lease / policy / contract] in plain English: [paste it]. List my main obligations, the key dates, and any clause that could cost me money or catch me out. You are helping me understand it, not giving legal advice.
A government or medical letter
Put this letter into plain English and tell me what, if anything, I need to do and by when: [paste it].
Planning anything
A trip, event or project
Help me plan [the thing]. The details are: [dates, people, budget, must-haves]. Give me a simple checklist of what to organise and when. Ask me anything you need before you start.
Compare my options
I am trying to decide between [option A] and [option B] for [purpose]. Lay out the real pros and cons of each in a table, then tell me what would tip the decision either way.
Health information (with care)
Understand a diagnosis or medication
Explain [condition or medication] in plain English: what it is, what to expect, and common questions people ask. This is general information only and does not replace my doctor. Do not give me a diagnosis.
Questions for your appointment
I have an appointment about [topic]. Suggest a short list of sensible questions I could ask my [GP / specialist], so I do not forget anything.
Money and admin
Make sense of a statement or bill
Help me understand this [bill / statement]: [paste or describe it]. Explain each main charge in plain English and flag anything that looks unusual or worth querying.
A budget to actually follow
Help me build a simple monthly budget. My income is [amount] and my regular costs are [list]. Keep it to one page and suggest two realistic places I could save.
Learning something new
AI as a patient tutor
Teach me [topic] from scratch, one small step at a time. Check I have understood each step before moving on, and use everyday examples. Assume I know nothing and am not in a hurry.
Want to get genuinely good at this, not just copy prompts? Module 2 of the course teaches the four controls that make any prompt work, and Module 1 is free to start.