ChatGPT Best Practices and Strategies

Jul 25, 2025

Overview

This video provides a comprehensive and updated guide to ChatGPT best practices, advanced prompt engineering strategies, and workflow integrations as of mid-2025. The presenter shares actionable tips, real-world applications, prompt examples, and practical "cheat codes" for maximizing ChatGPT's utility across personal and professional contexts.

Best Practices for Prompting

  • Clearly specify the desired output format (e.g., checklist, table, YouTube script) for more tailored responses.
  • Assign ChatGPT a specific role or persona to shape tone and expertise.
  • Provide detailed, focused prompts for higher quality results.
  • Utilize iteration loops by instructing ChatGPT to draft, critique, and improve its own answers.

Using Projects and Custom Instructions

  • Projects act as subfolders with dedicated chats, files, and custom instructions for context retention.
  • Example use cases: video game development, personal journaling, health coaching, investment advising, and content simplification.
  • Custom instructions allow persistent context (role, goals, user info) for all project chats.
  • Project files (docs, images, code) supplement context for richer outputs.

Practical Prompt Examples and Life Hacks

  • Prompts can deliver wellness routines, Instagram carousel breakdowns, streamlined recipes, and 30-day learning plans for hobbies.
  • Use ChatGPT to quiz yourself on any topic for effective self-testing.
  • Try self-debate prompts for critical thinking, examining hidden assumptions, counter-arguments, or second/third-order consequences.
  • Use automation diagnostic prompts to identify repetitive tasks and suggest workflow improvements.

Memory, Self-Reflection, and Therapy Applications

  • ChatGPT's memory enables tracking of user blind spots and personal growth over time.
  • Reflective prompts can uncover productivity blocks and suggest actionable solutions.
  • ChatGPT can guide basic CBT-style self-therapy sessions, though it's not a substitute for professional support.

Prompt Engineering “Cheat Codes”

  • Use short codes for quick formatting: "ELI5" (explain like I'm five), "TLDDR" (summarize), "jargonize", "humanize", and "Feynman technique".
  • Cheat codes save time and enable flexible depth/detail.

Advanced Prompt Engineering Techniques

  • Tree of Thought Exploration: Explore multiple solution paths, rank them, and justify the best option.
  • Self-Consistency Voting: Generate independent answers, select the majority, and explain the rationale.
  • Reflection Loop: Draft, critique, and revise answers in one prompt.
  • World Engine/Interactive Stories: Build roleplaying or interactive narrative experiences with persistent state.

Tools and Workflow Integrations

  • Spotter Studio integrates with YouTube for data-driven title and thumbnail brainstorming.
  • ChatGPT can assist with content ideation, workflow automation, and repetitive task elimination.

Recommendations / Advice

  • Be specific and detailed in your prompts for best results.
  • Use iterative and self-reflective techniques for complex tasks or decisions.
  • Leverage projects and memory features for ongoing workflows, coaching, or journaling.
  • Experiment with advanced prompt frameworks to deepen analysis or create interactive applications.