Help me solve this problem: [PROBLEM STATEMENT]. The goal is [GOAL OR DECISION], and these constraints must hold: [CONSTRAINTS]. Here is the information, data, or work already available: [GIVEN INFORMATION]. My current level and preferred explanation style are [BACKGROUND LEVEL]. First identify the problem type and list the facts, unknowns, units, definitions, and assumptions needed. If a key fact is absent, ask up to 3 clarifying questions; otherwise proceed. Do not make up data or quietly choose an assumption that changes the result. Then produce:
1. A concise restatement of the problem and approach. 2. A numbered solution with each formula, substitution, and unit conversion shown. 3. A final answer clearly labeled, with units and appropriate rounding. 4. A verification using an independent check: substitute into the original condition, estimate the order of magnitude, test boundary cases, or use a second method where practical. 5. For a practical decision, give 2–3 feasible options, tradeoffs, and the recommendation against my stated goal. Distinguish facts from assumptions. For word problems, test whether the result is physically or logically possible, including negative quantities, impossible probabilities, mismatched units, and rounding that breaks a constraint. If more than one interpretation is reasonable, show the alternatives rather than choosing silently. Before answering, check all arithmetic and confirm that the final answer answers the exact question asked.
Fill in
| Placeholder | What to enter | Example |
|---|---|---|
| [PROBLEM STATEMENT] | Enter the full math, logic, or practical problem exactly as you understand it. | A tank contains 120 liters and drains at 3 L/min while water enters at 1.2 L/min. How long until it is empty? |
| [GOAL OR DECISION] | Enter the result you need, such as a numerical answer, proof, comparison, or recommendation. | Find the time in minutes and explain the rate setup. |
| [CONSTRAINTS] | Enter limits, allowed methods, deadlines, budget, rounding rules, or conditions that cannot be violated. | Use a linear rate model and round to the nearest tenth of a minute. |
| [GIVEN INFORMATION] | Enter known values, definitions, source data, diagrams described in words, and your attempted work. | Initial volume is 120 L; outflow is 3 L/min; inflow is 1.2 L/min; I think the net rate is 1.8 L/min out. |
| [BACKGROUND LEVEL] | Enter your level and preferred detail, such as Algebra II with every step shown or analyst-level concise. | High school algebra; show each step but keep it compact. |
How to use
- Paste the full problem, including units, diagrams described in words, and any attempted work.
- State constraints such as permitted methods, rounding rules, or values that are estimates.
- Check the verification section before relying on the answer, especially the sign, units, and boundary cases.
- Follow up with: “Now solve it using a second method and explain where my original approach could fail.”
Variations
Proof checker
Use this when you have written a proof and need rigorous feedback rather than a replacement answer.
Audit my proof of [CLAIM]: [MY PROOF]. The permitted definitions and theorems are [ALLOWED TOOLS], and the expected level is [COURSE LEVEL]. Identify each unsupported inference, missing case, invalid converse, or ambiguous definition. Then provide the smallest set of corrections needed, followed by a clean proof only if the claim is true under the stated assumptions. Do not introduce unapproved theorems. Before answering, verify that every conclusion follows from a cited premise or theorem.
Quantitative decision
Use this for an operational choice involving costs, capacity, uncertainty, or competing objectives.
Analyze this decision: [DECISION]. My objective is [OBJECTIVE], with these non-negotiable constraints: [CONSTRAINTS]. Use only this evidence: [DATA]. Create a table of 2–4 feasible options with calculation steps, assumptions, downside risks, and sensitivity to the most uncertain input. Recommend one option only if the data supports it; otherwise specify the missing measurement that would change the decision. Check units, avoid false precision, and flag any conclusion that depends on an unsupported assumption.
Word problem tutor
Use this when you want help learning the setup before seeing the full solution.
Tutor me through this problem without giving the final answer immediately: [PROBLEM]. I am at [LEVEL] and I have tried: [ATTEMPT]. Ask me one guiding question at a time, wait for my answer, and give a hint before revealing a step. After I solve it or ask for the solution, show the complete worked method and one similar practice problem with different numbers. Check that the equation matches the quantities and units in the original wording.
Tips
- Put units beside every number in the input; many wrong answers come from converting minutes, percentages, or rates inconsistently.
- State whether a number is exact, estimated, or rounded before asking for a recommendation, since precision changes the conclusion.
- For optimization or business problems, list hard constraints separately from preferences so the AI does not trade away a requirement.
- Treat a numerical result as incomplete until it is tested against the original equation or a realistic boundary case.
FAQ
Can AI solve a math problem from a photo?
It can help, but transcribe the equation and labels yourself when accuracy matters. A missed exponent, minus sign, or diagram condition changes the problem.
Why should I ask for a verification?
A separate check catches arithmetic slips and bad setups that can still produce a polished-looking explanation.
Can this prompt help with non-math decisions?
Yes. Replace formulas with options, constraints, evidence, and tradeoffs, then require assumptions and sensitivity checks.