Help me learn how to solve [MATH PROBLEM] at the level of [COURSE OR LEVEL]. My attempted work is [MY ATTEMPT], and the methods, notation, calculator rules, or answer format required by my class are [CLASS CONSTRAINTS]. My main difficulty is [WHAT I AM STUCK ON]. Do not begin with the final answer. First identify the mathematical topic and the exact skill being tested. Then assess my attempt: mark the first step that is incorrect, incomplete, or unjustified, explain why it fails, and preserve any correct work. Teach the solution using this sequence: 1. Restate the given information, unknowns, units, domain restrictions, and conditions.
2. Name the method to use and why it applies instead of a nearby method that might be confused with it. 3. Give one step at a time. After each major step, ask me to predict the next operation or state the reason before revealing it. 4. Show the completed solution only after the guided steps, with enough algebra, arithmetic, or proof justification to reproduce it on paper. 5. Verify the result by substitution, estimation, graph behavior, units, sign, or a second method, whichever fits the problem. 6. End with two short practice problems: one nearly identical and one that tests the same idea with a changed condition. Put answers after a separator, without full worked solutions unless I ask. If the problem is from a graded assessment, help me understand the method but do not present work as if it were mine. Before answering, check for arithmetic errors and check that any division, square root, logarithm, denominator, or domain restriction is valid. Ask up to 3 clarifying questions only if a required input is missing.
Fill in
| Placeholder | What to enter | Example |
|---|---|---|
| [MATH PROBLEM] | Paste the full problem, including diagrams, answer choices, and instructions. | Solve 3/(x - 2) + 1/(x + 1) = 2 for x. |
| [COURSE OR LEVEL] | State the course and level, such as Algebra II, AP Calculus, or first-year statistics. | Algebra II |
| [MY ATTEMPT] | Show your work so far, including the step where you became unsure. | I multiplied both sides by x - 2 and got 3 + (x - 2)/(x + 1) = 2x - 4. I do not know what to do next. |
| [CLASS CONSTRAINTS] | List required methods, notation, rounding rules, calculator limits, or answer format. | Show algebra steps, give exact answers, and state excluded values. |
| [WHAT I AM STUCK ON] | Describe the specific concept or step that is confusing you. | I am unsure how to clear both denominators without making a mistake. |
How to use
- Paste the entire question and your actual work, including crossed-out or uncertain steps that reveal the misconception.
- Name class rules such as exact form, degrees versus radians, required proof format, or permitted calculator use.
- Attempt the next step before asking for the revealed answer; the learning value comes from retrieving the method yourself.
- Follow up with: “Give me one more problem where the same method applies, but do not name the method until after I attempt it.”
Variations
Proof coach
Use this for geometry, discrete math, or proof-based work where justification matters.
Coach me through this proof problem: [PROBLEM]. I am studying [COURSE LEVEL], and my draft proof is [DRAFT PROOF]. Use only these allowed definitions, theorems, or proof formats: [CLASS RULES]. Identify the first unsupported claim, then ask me for the missing justification before showing a possible repair. Produce a two-column or paragraph proof only after the coaching sequence. Label givens, definitions, and theorems used. Do not introduce an advanced theorem not allowed by my course. Check that every conclusion follows from a prior statement. Ask up to 3 questions only if required inputs are missing.
Word problem setup
Use this when translating a real-world problem into equations is harder than solving them.
Help me set up, not immediately solve, [WORD PROBLEM] for [COURSE LEVEL]. My attempt to define variables is [MY SETUP]. Explain what each quantity represents, identify units, choose variables, and write the equation or system from the relationships in the wording. Point out common translation traps, such as mixing rates and totals or reversing a percent change. Then ask me to solve from the setup. Provide the solution only after a separator for self-checking. Check that units agree on both sides and that the result would make practical sense. Ask up to 3 questions only if required inputs are missing.
Statistics interpretation
Use this for interpreting a result without overstating what data can show.
Help me interpret [STATISTICS PROBLEM OR OUTPUT] for [COURSE LEVEL]. The study context is [STUDY DETAILS], and my attempted interpretation is [MY INTERPRETATION]. Explain the statistic, test, interval, or graph in plain language; state what population and comparison it concerns; and distinguish association from causation where relevant. Include assumptions, sample-size or design limits, and the correct conclusion at the stated significance level if provided. Do not invent a causal mechanism or generalize beyond the sample. Check that the conclusion matches the p-value, confidence interval, or graph. Ask up to 3 questions only if required inputs are missing.
Tips
- For algebra, write excluded values before multiplying through by denominators; a cleared equation can produce an answer that makes the original expression undefined.
- For calculus, state the variable, interval, and units before interpreting a derivative or integral, because the computation alone does not answer the applied question.
- For statistics, separate the numerical calculation from the conclusion about a population; the design determines what the data can justify.
- Ask the model to locate the first wrong step rather than merely correct the final answer, which makes recurring mistakes easier to identify.
FAQ
Will this prompt just give me the answer?
It instructs the model to start with diagnosis and guided steps. You can ask it to pause after each question if you want a slower tutoring session.
How do I use it with a graph or diagram?
Upload a clear image and transcribe labels, scales, and instructions if possible. Ask the model to state what it can and cannot read before relying on the diagram.
Can AI check a proof?
It can help identify missing justification and test logical flow, but you should compare the result with the definitions and theorems your course permits.