Most people get ChatGPT wrong

ChatGPT is more than just a text generator. If you frame prompts the right way, it can be your research assistant, creative partner, coach, or even data analyst. But the prompts make all the difference.

I asked o3-pro one simple question:

“Based on everything that you know about me, what are the highest leverage questions I can ask the o3-pro model exclusively that cannot be answered well by o3 or deep research alone?”

According to o3, here’s the hard truth:

“Unless you push the model beyond straightforward “tell me what to do” requests, you will keep getting answers you could have stitched together from me (o3) plus a few hours of Google, ChatGPT, and Excel.”

Ouch.

So, how can I get the most out of o3?

“The o3 pro tier only earns its keep when you force it to synthesize large, messy, multi-domain inputs; run deep, quantitative or algorithmic reasoning; and deliver personalized, decision-grade output that you’d struggle to reproduce manually.”

Now we’re talking.

What are some examples of this in action? Well, ChatGPT gave me a few based on different scenarios:

• Complex API cascade: Translate my ‘AI fluency gamification’ PRD into a full OKR tree across Marketing, Ops, and Product, with quarterly targets and leading indicators that roll up to Net Revenue Retention.

• Real-options valuation: Value my ABM SaaS as a portfolio of options (LinkedIn, Google, Meta channels).

• Personal-business-calendar synthesis: Merge my workout, travel, speaking, and caregiving commitment into an ideal week template that preserves 15h deep work and 7h family time.

Not bad.

These prompt strategies turn ChatGPT into your strategic partner. No fluff. No generic results. Just high-impact outputs tailored to your real goals.

To smarter prompts,
Eric

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