What you’ll learn
The problem: Finding the answer you need in a long product manual can be frustrating.
How AI can help: AI can explain a passage and help you find the relevant instructions. Always check the manufacturer’s manual, including its safety warnings.
In this lesson: You’ll ask about a made-up manual and check the answer against the original.
What you’ll need: A phone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection and access to an AI chat. You can read the example here without opening a chat.
Before you start: Use the made-up excerpt below. Don’t share passwords, account numbers, or private details. You don’t need to upload a file for this exercise.
1. Open an AI chat
Open ChatGPT (opens in a new tab) or another AI chat you use. A free option is available, although access and limits can vary. If asked to sign in or create an account, follow the on-screen instructions.
Keep this lesson open so you can switch between the lesson and the AI chat. If this is new to you, try your first conversation with AI first.
2. Ask about the manual
Copy or type the entire fictional example below into the message box and send it:
Your first message:
Use only this fictional manual excerpt. Timer: Press TIMER, select 15 minutes, then press START. Cleaning: Switch off and unplug the device, then wipe the outside with a soft, dry cloth. Never use liquid cleaner or open the housing. What are the timer steps and cleaning precautions? Include every warning. If something is not stated, say so. Do not add instructions.
Need help copying and pasting?
On a computer: Select the message above. Copy it with Ctrl+C on Windows or Command+C on a Mac. Switch to your AI chat, click the message box, and paste with Ctrl+V or Command+V.
On a phone or tablet: Touch and hold the message, adjust the selection handles if needed, and choose Copy. Switch to your AI chat, touch and hold the message box, and choose Paste.
If a Copy button doesn’t work, use these steps or type the message yourself. After pasting, send the message.
3. Ask a follow-up
In the same conversation, ask a question that requires a careful reading of the excerpt:
Your follow-up message:
According to the fictional excerpt, can I use a damp cloth? Give a direct answer and repeat all of the cleaning precautions without adding new instructions.
What a helpful answer might look like
This example was written for the lesson; it is not a recorded AI response. Your answer may use different words.
- No. The excerpt says to use a soft, dry cloth.
- Switch off and unplug the device before wiping the outside.
- Never use liquid cleaner or open the housing.
4. Check the answer
Compare AI’s answer with every line of the fictional excerpt:
- Did it say a damp cloth is not what the excerpt specifies?
- Did it keep the switch-off and unplug instructions?
- Did it keep both warnings: no liquid cleaner and don’t open the housing?
The timer steps in the excerpt are: press TIMER, select 15 minutes, then press START. The excerpt says nothing about replacing a bulb, so an answer should not invent replacement steps.
Try it with your own task
For your own product, find the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact model. You can ask AI to explain a short, non-sensitive passage you’re allowed to share, then compare its answer and every warning with the original manual. If a task seems unsafe or the guidance is unclear, stop and contact the manufacturer or a qualified professional.
What if I get stuck?
I can’t find where to type. Look for the message box near the bottom of your AI chat.
The answer isn’t right. If an answer omits a warning, ask: “Recheck the passage and include every precaution.” Then check it against the original yourself.
I need copying help. Use “Need help copying and pasting?” above, or type the example yourself.
You’ve finished when: You’ve asked a question, found the answer in the supplied text, and checked that the precautions were preserved.
Try the next lesson: Write a refund or warranty request →
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