Introduction
Ideally, you should study for weeks before a test. But in real life, things happen. Sometimes you look at the calendar and realize the big exam is tomorrow morning.
Panic sets in. You might be tempted to cheat because you feel like there is no time to learn.
Don't do it. You still have time if you work smart.
You can use AI to apply the 80/20 Rule. This rule states that 80% of the value comes from 20% of the material. Here is how to use AI to find that important 20% and learn it fast.
Step 1: Find the "High Yield" Topics
You cannot read the whole textbook in one night. You need to know what matters most.
Paste your syllabus or your class notes into ChatGPT or Claude.
Use this prompt:
"I have an exam on this material tomorrow. I only have 2 hours to study. Identify the top 5 'high yield' concepts that are most likely to appear on the test. Explain why these are critical."
The AI acts like a smart teacher. It strips away the small details and points you to the big core concepts. Focus all your energy there.
Step 2: Create a "Mental" Cheat Sheet
You cannot bring a cheat sheet into the exam. But writing one is the best way to study.
Ask the AI to condense the notes into a single page.
Use this prompt:
"Create a one-page study guide for these 5 topics. Use bullet points, bold key terms, and keep definitions under 10 words."
Read this sheet. Then, take a blank piece of paper and try to write it out from memory. This is much faster than re-reading chapters of text.
Step 3: Use "Sticky" Mnemonics
If you have to memorize a list of dates, names, or formulas quickly, you need a hook.
AI is excellent at creating mnemonics (memory tricks).
Use this prompt:
"I need to memorize the order of the planets / the steps of mitosis / these 5 formulas. Create a catchy acronym or a funny rhyme to help me remember them instantly."
It is easier to remember a funny sentence like "My Very Educated Mother..." than a dry list of facts.
Step 4: The "Explain It Back" Speed Run
In the final 30 minutes, you need to prove you know it.
Open the voice feature on the ChatGPT app. Tell it:
"I am going to explain [Topic] to you. Listen to me and tell me if I missed anything huge."
Talk out loud while you walk around your room. Speaking activates a different part of your brain than reading. If you can say it, you know it.
Conclusion
Cramming is not the best way to learn, but it is better than giving up.
By using AI to filter out the noise and focus on the "High Yield" topics, you can walk into the exam room with confidence. You didn't cheat; you just prioritized.
