Tech Tips

AI Usage – Productivity

Practical ways to use AI tools more effectively for drafting, structuring, and thinking through work—without replacing judgment.

Don’t just ask for answers. Ask for *structured disagreement.*

Use:

“Give me 2 alternative approaches. For each, list: assumptions, risks, edge cases, and when it will fail.”

Optional add-on (power move):

“Now critique the strongest option.”

Why this matters:

• Forces the model to expose hidden assumptions
• Surfaces implementation risks before you commit
• Reveals edge cases (where most professional errors happen)
• Simulates internal review without group bias

Most AI errors don’t come from wrong answers.
They come from unchallenged assumptions.

Single output = efficiency.
Structured alternatives + critique = control.

Never ask AI to “summarise this email” blindly.

Instead say:

“Summarise and highlight ONLY items requiring action or reply.”

Why this matters:

• Prevents missing obligations

• Filters noise

• Saves review time

AI should prioritise work, not just compress text.

Use AI as a drafting assistant, not a data processor.

Good uses:
• Rewriting emails professionally
• Summarising notifications
• Creating checklists
• Explaining unfamiliar concepts

Avoid uploading:
• Client data
• Returns
• Working papers

AI can assist speed.
Judgment and data responsibility stay with you.

AI responds better to context than keywords.

Instead of:
“Draft a reply”

Try:
“Draft a polite reply declining a deadline extension,
in a professional tone.”

Clear intent → usable output.

AI tools answer confidently — accuracy is not guaranteed.

Before relying on output:
• Recheck section numbers & limits
• Verify dates, thresholds, applicability
• Use it as a draft, not a final view

Treat AI as an assistant, not an associate.
Judgement remains yours.