Ask for a research plan before conclusions

Unit ID: AIT-M06-U01 Estimated active time: 15-20 minutes

The main idea

A plan shows what to look for and how to check it.

This matters because everyday AI tools can produce useful work very quickly. Speed is helpful, but speed can also make us skip judgement.

In this unit, keep the Module 1 rule in mind:

AI can assist. You still review and decide.

Why this matters

Start with questions and source types.

When you give clear instructions and review the result, the tool becomes easier to use responsibly. When you skip the habit, the tool may produce something polished but unsuitable.

Safe example

A question becomes source types, search terms, comparison criteria, and risks.

This is a safe learning example because it does not require private, confidential, personal, customer, student, employee, legal, medical, financial, or sensitive information.

Better working habit

Start with questions and source types.

Write the habit down before you use the tool. A short habit is easier to remember than a long rule.

What to watch for

Do not ask the tool to decide before evidence exists.

If you notice this problem, slow down. You can edit the prompt, ask a follow-up question, review manually, or reject the output.

Mini practice

Create a research plan for a safe everyday question.

Write your answer in 3-6 sentences or a short table. Keep it safe and nonsensitive.

Check yourself

Before moving on, answer:

• What did I ask the AI tool to help with?
• What did I keep responsibility for?
• What would make this task unsafe or unsuitable?
• What would I check before using the output?