Writing and Research with AI

Writing and Research Prompts for an AI-Supported Approach

Use these prompts to structure, clarify and refine your writing or research planning. Always edit and fact-check AI outputs yourself.

Exploring Assignment Ideas & Brainstorming

1. You are an experienced academic writing tutor. I am preparing to write an assignment on [topic] for a [level, course] module.

Please suggest a range of possible arguments or perspectives that could be developed in response to this question:
[paste essay question]

For each idea, provide a possible counterargument or limitation.

2. I’m trying to develop a strong argument for an essay on [topic].

Ask me a series of probing questions that will help me clarify my position, identify counterarguments and consider alternative viewpoints before deciding on my main argument.

Assignment Framework

You are an experienced academic writing tutor. I am preparing a [type of assignment] on [topic] for a [level, course] module with a [insert word count] word limit.

Please suggest a logical outline or framework, showing how I might structure the assignment.

Ask me 3–5 questions first to ensure your suggestions are appropriate for the task.

Understanding a Concept

Explain [concept] as it applies to [business/law example]. Include:

• a brief definition

• one real-world example

• one contrasting example.

Then give 3 short questions I can use to test my understanding.

Test the strength of your paragraph structure

You are an academic writing tutor. I will share a paragraph from my draft essay.

Please check whether it follows the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation (or Analysis), Link) structure.

For each element (Point, Evidence, Explanation (or Analysis), Link):

• Identify if it is clearly present.

• Briefly explain what works well and what might need strengthening.

• Do not rewrite or correct any wording, just comment on structure and clarity.

 [paste paragraph]

Non-AI Writing and Research Alternatives

Each AI query uses significant computing power.For early brainstorming, try pen and paper, sticky notes, or group discussion first. 

It’s better for the environment and helps your brain retain information better. 

Exploring Assignment Ideas & Brainstorming

• Highlight key verbs in the brief (analyse, evaluate, discuss).

• Create a mind map of what you already know.

• Use mind mapping tools like MindMup to organise your ideas.

• Identify arguments and note one counterargument for each.

• Talk through your ideas with your Academic Skills Tutor.

• Review readings for contrasting viewpoints.

• Write one-sentence summaries of each potential argument to test clarity.

Assignment Framework 

• Divide word count: around 10% intro, 75–80% main body, 10–15% conclusion.

• Check marking criteria and plan sections to match.

• Draft simple headings (Intro, Topic 1, Topic 2, Topic 3, Conclusion).

• Ask: Does each section address the question and flow logically?

• Get feedback on your plan from a classmate or Academic Skills Tutor.

Understanding a Concept

• Write your own definition, then compare it with an academic source.

• Find one example where it works well and one where it fails.

• Test yourself with these questions:

  1. How does it operate in practice?

  2. What are its main limitations?

  3. How might it differ in another context?

• Explain the concept aloud to check understanding.

Testing Paragraph Structure (PEEL / PEAL)

• Colour-code your paragraph:
  Green = Point Yellow = Evidence Blue = Explanation Pink = Link

• Check each element: Is it clear and connected?

• Swap with a peer and ask them to identify each part.

• Highlight where you have used description, explanation and analysis.

• Look at the  PEEL paragraph model.