Break an assignment into smaller tasks with deadlines

Explanation

Sometimes, whether big or small, a task can feel like climbing a mountain. AI can help us to break that task down into smaller components so that we can remind ourselves that every task is just a case of going step-by-step.

Example Prompt

"Hello, I am a first-year student studying for a BA in Classical Studies with Archaeology at a UK university. I am writing a 2,500-word essay on the societal impact of Alexander's invasion of Egypt in 332 BC. I'm feeling very overwhelmed by having to write this so I was hoping you might be able to break the process down into smaller steps with deadlines for me to follow? I have done a little research, but I would appreciate going from the very start of the process (with "initial research"). I have a week to complete the work. Thank you!"

AI Response

🏛️ Essay Planner: Alexander’s Invasion of Egypt (2,500 words in 7 Days)

📅 Day 1 – Initial Research & Topic Mapping

• Goal: Understand the historical context and societal impact.
• Tasks: 
• Read 2–3 academic sources (books, journal articles, or trusted websites).
• Take notes on key themes: political changes, cultural shifts, religious influence, urban development.
• Create a rough mind map of ideas.
• Target: 2–3 hours of focused reading and note-taking.
  
  

📅 Day 2 – Build Your Essay Structure

• Goal: Create a clear outline.
• Tasks:

• Decide on 3–4 main sections (e.g., Introduction, Political Impact, Cultural Impact, Conclusion).
• Introduction: 250 words
• Each body section: ~600–700 words
• Conclusion: 250 words
• Jot down bullet points for each section based on your notes.

📅 Day 3 – Write the Introduction & First Body Section

• Goal: Start writing!
• Tasks:
• Write your introduction: define the scope, mention Alexander’s invasion, and outline your argument.
• Write the first body section (e.g., Political Impact).
• Tip: Don’t worry about perfection—just get your ideas down.
  
  

📅 Day 4 – Write the Second Body Section

• Goal: Continue building your argument.
• Tasks:

• Write the second body section (e.g., Cultural or Religious Impact).
• Use examples from your research to support your points.
  
  

📅 Day 5 – Write the Final Body Section & Conclusion

• Goal: Finish the first full draft.
• Tasks:

• Write the final body section (e.g., Long-term Legacy or Urban Development).
• Write your conclusion: summarise key points, reflect on societal impact, and tie back to your introduction.
  
  

📅 Day 6 – First Edit & Reference Check

• Goal: Improve clarity and accuracy.
• Tasks:

• Read through your essay and fix grammar, flow, and structure.
• Check that all sources are cited correctly (Harvard or your required style).
• Add footnotes or bibliography.
  
  

📅 Day 7 – Final Polish & Submission

• Goal: Submit with confidence!
• Tasks:
• Read aloud to catch awkward phrasing.
• Double-check word count and formatting.
• Submit your essay before the deadline.