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Generative AI and Copilot: 2. Using Gen AI to Plan Your Assignments

Note: All gen AI tools are subject to "hallucination" and bias. When using an AI-powered tool, be aware it may misrepresent otherwise credible sources. Make sure to read all sources before using them for your assignments. Failure to do so will classify as Fabrication and Academic Misconduct.

Plan assignments & study schedules

Gen AI tools can be helpful in suggesting structure for your assignments and your time management, because structure and scheduling plans are repeatable patterns with consistent terminology.

 

Following on from the previous brainstorming session for keywords, use it to help breakdown assignment topics:

PROMPT: "As a 1st year Politics student, how would you break down an assignment question? The question is: 'In 2000 words discuss how Foucault's theory of "Disciplinary Power" normalises self-censorship in Australian high schools. Use at least five scholarly sources and evidence from the Department of Education.' What kind of response is required, and what kind of sources do I need to find to answer it?"

  • Present your response in a table using the column headings: Tasks, and Information Sources. Provide links to all information sources used."
  • HINT: By asking for the table including Tasks, and Information sources, gen AI can help guide you to the kinds of sources that will help answer your assessment.

 

Use it to plan the structure of your response:

Once you have performed your own brainstorming and initial scoping search on ECU Library Search, you will have a few topics, ask:

  • PROMPT: "How would you format these topics as a 2000 word essay? How many paragraphs should I write, and what word count do I need for each section of the essay?"

 

Ask it to help organise your study schedule:

PROMPT: "You are a time-strapped 3rd year university student studying Criminology, how could you plan a study schedule to compile a 2000 word essay? What steps would you take?"

  • Ask follow-up questions: "How can I stay better focused for an hour on writing my essay?"

Academic Skills @ ECU

See the Academic Skills @ ECU Canvas site for suggestions of what to prompt the gen AI tools in order to get the best help in planning your assignments.

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  • Last Updated: Jun 16, 2025 3:47 PM
  • URL: https://ecu.au.libguides.com/generative-ai
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