## 3.2. Applications: where AI can truly help you

AI can be a helpful study aid in many ways. Explore the tabs below for examples related to searching and finding literature. These are just a few of the many possibilities available. Some examples can even be combined to create new applications.

Note: always check with your instructor whether the use of AI tools is permitted. Using them without permission or proper citation may be considered academic misconduct.

Want to learn how to get the best results? Then continue to Chapter 5: “How to get the best results?”.

1. Formulating a research question

By asking AI for suggestions based on a topic, you can more quickly arrive at a clear and well-defined question. For example: “What research questions are relevant within the theme of climate migration?” AI can then offer various angles, such as legal, economic, or social perspectives.

2. Summarizing texts

Especially with long or complex articles, AI can help you quickly grasp the core ideas. For example, you might ask: “Summarize this article in 200 words, focusing on the conclusion.” This is useful for literature reviews, but also when preparing for exams. Note: AI-generated summaries are not always complete or accurate, so always verify them against the original text. And be careful not to share articles in a chatbot that are behind a paywall — doing so infringes on copyright.

3. Quick introduction to the topic

Various AI tools can help you quickly get oriented with a new topic. These include AI tools that, for example, summarize key information and articles.

4. Improving your own text

You can enter a paragraph and ask for a rewrite in an academic style or to correct grammatical errors. AI tools such as Writefull or Grammarly are specifically designed for this purpose.

5. Generating search terms

Based on a description of your topic, AI can suggest synonyms or related terms that you can use in databases.

6. Generating references

You can ask AI tools to format a source in APA style. Or you can ask an AI tool to compile a bibliography based on a topic. However, be aware: AI sometimes invents sources that do not exist or provides only a limited selection of sources. Always check whether the mentioned sources actually exist, for example via Libsearch or Google Scholar.

7. Socratic opponent

AI can act as an opponent in a discussion. This way, you can learn to better support your viewpoint. By using a conversation or debate structure in your prompts, you can ask AI to provide counterarguments or pose critical questions. This helps you sharpen and strengthen your reasoning.

8. Role as coach

AI can guide you through the execution of complex tasks. Provide step-by-step instructions and go through the process together one step at a time. This way, you learn in a structured manner.