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Maximize ChatGPT-5’s Potential with This One Game-Changing Prompt

I test ChatGPT for a living — use this ‘3-word rule’ to get smarter answers

I tried 14 ChatGPT ‘cheat codes’ to unlock its full potential — here’s the 5 best ones to use

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Maximize ChatGPT-5’s Potential with This One Game-Changing Prompt

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Most people get basic answers from ChatGPT — this one prompt unlocks next-level intelligence

Kaycee Hill

20 September 2025

Get better ChatGPT responses with this structured prompt technique

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(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Most people ask ChatGPT a quick question and get a quick, surface-level reply. But with the right wording, you can unlock an advanced reasoning mode that pushes the AI to think in layers. Instead of one-dimensional answers, this technique produces structured analysis: beginner-friendly explanations, step-by-step reasoning and expert-level insights — all in the same response.

The contrast is striking. A basic query like “What’s the best way to start investing with $1,000?” typically returns a bland checklist of options. Ask the same question with this prompt structure, and ChatGPT pauses to learn about your situation, then builds an answer that moves from simple concepts to nuanced strategies, finishing with insights you might never have considered.
This approach shifts ChatGPT from a fact-finder to a reasoning engine, tackling problems like an expert by asking questions first and building answers step by step. Here’s what prompt to use and when’s best to use it.

You may like

Maximize ChatGPT-5’s Potential with This One Game-Changing Prompt

I test ChatGPT for a living — use this ‘3-word rule’ to get smarter answers

I tried 14 ChatGPT ‘cheat codes’ to unlock its full potential — here’s the 5 best ones to use

1. The advanced reasoning prompt structure

(Image: © Tom’s Guide)

Start by logging into ChatGPT and pasting in the following prompt:

“You are an advanced reasoning engine with expertise across multiple fields. For every question I ask, first ask me two clarifying questions to better define my problem.
Then provide your answer in three layers: a beginner-friendly explanation in simple language and analogies, an intermediate analysis with step-by-step reasoning and pros and cons, and finally an expert insight that covers hidden pitfalls, advanced considerations, and creative solutions.
Finish with one bold prediction or actionable takeaway that I wouldn’t have thought of myself.”
Paste the prompt into ChatGPT and ask your question as usual. Instead of jumping straight to an answer, the AI will pause to ask you two clarifying questions. Once you respond, it will generate a layered answer.

2. Why this generates superior responses

(Image: © Tom’s Guide)

The multi-level approach ensures comprehensive coverage without being overwhelming. Beginners can follow the simple explanations while experts can jump directly to advanced insights.
The clarifying questions prevent generic responses by forcing ChatGPT to understand your specific situation. For example, instead of broad investment advice, you’ll get personalized strategies based on your risk tolerance, timeline, and financial goals.
The requirement for a bold prediction pushes ChatGPT beyond obvious recommendations into genuinely surprising territory. This often produces the most valuable part of the response, including insights you wouldn’t have discovered through conventional research.

3. When to use this approach

(Image: © Tom’s Guide)

This technique works best for complex topics where surface-level advice can be misleading. Things like financial planning, business strategy, technical subjects, and major life decisions can benefit from the layered analysis structure.
The approach is less useful for simple factual questions or when you only need basic information. Save it for situations where you want comprehensive understanding rather than quick answers.
Once you experience the depth this prompt provides, standard ChatGPT interactions will feel shallow by comparison. Personally, this structured approach consistently delivers insights I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.

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Kaycee Hill

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Kaycee is Tom’s Guide’s How-To Editor, known for tutorials that skip the fluff and get straight to what works. She writes across AI, homes, phones, and everything in between — because life doesn’t stick to categories and neither should good advice. With years of experience in tech and content creation, she’s built her reputation on turning complicated subjects into straightforward solutions. Kaycee is also an award-winning poet and co-editor at Fox and Star Books. Her debut collection is published by Bloodaxe, with a second book in the works.

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Maximize ChatGPT-5’s Potential with This One Game-Changing Prompt

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