The correct way to use AI in academics

Most of us have used ChatGPT for homework at least once. Maybe the deadline was way too close, or maybe we were just tired and didn’t feel like dealing with another worksheet. And sure, we know that letting AI (Artificial Intelligence) write everything for us isn’t exactly the most ethical choice. But whether we like it or not, AI has become a huge part of our lives now — so figuring out how to use it the right way is pretty important.

One of the best ways to use AI is to make it a search engine. Instead of scrolling endlessly for hours or landing on random websites that may not be reliable, AI can help you find trustworthy sources. It helps you find information you can use, which makes your work more accurate. However, we must remember that overusing AI comes with its problems. Studies show that consistent ChatGPT use significantly reduces brain activity.

 AI is also really helpful when something feels impossible to understand. Whether it’s a math formula that looks like it's written in another language or a science concept that refuses to be understood, AI can break things down into simple explanations. It helps you get your eureka moment faster. Aman Sir, our Maths facilitator, says, ‘AI can help students learn at their own pace and figure out their learning style. It helps them in better preparation for exams as AI can give last-minute revision tricks and tips.’

My classmate, Aarya, agrees. ‘I think the most appropriate way for students to use AI in education is to use it to help them focus on their weak concepts and improve in those areas by making AI give them practice questions and explanations tailored to their learning style,’ she says. 

Another useful feature is generating practice material. If you have run out of practice material, AI can generate extra problems or quizzes. It’s a good way to check if you have grasped the topic, instead of just rereading notes. Talking about notes, AI can be a lifesaver. It can turn long, messy information into clean summaries, bullet points, or mind maps. This makes studying a lot easier.

‘AI should be used for inspiration, not copy-pasting. It’s fine to look at how AI explains something or to get ideas, but the actual work should come from the student. Otherwise, you’re not really learning — you’re just submitting something a bot wrote,’ notes Anushka, another classmate.

Proofreading is an ethical way to use AI, too. It spots grammar mistakes, spelling issues, or confusing sentences. In this way, your work still reflects your thoughts, but it's clearer and more polished.

Overall, the goal is pretty simple: AI should support your learning, not do your learning for you. Always check the information it gives you—make sure it’s accurate and relevant—and keep your own voice in your work.

Using AI responsibly doesn’t just help you get through school. It helps you become a more thoughtful, independent learner who knows how to use new tools wisely. And honestly, that’s a skill that will matter long after homework stops being part of your life.

By Avani Singh, Grade 11