This simple AI prompt will sharpen your thinking (and maybe change your mind)

Published 6 months ago • 2 min read

Let’s talk about one of my favourite tricks for leveling up your thinking - using AI as your personal devil’s advocate. You know, that slightly frustrating but ultimately very helpful team mate who always asks “But have you considered…?”

Here’s the thing: Our brains are naturally wired to seek confirmation of what we already believe (hello, confirmation bias!). It’s like we’re all walking around with invisible yes-men in our heads. But what if we could flip that script?

Enter: The Devil’s Advocate Prompt

I’ve been experimenting with this super-powerful prompt format that turns AI into your friendly neighbourhood challenger-of-ideas. Here’s how it works:

Basic version (for when you’re short on time):

“[State your position]. Play devil’s advocate and argue why the opposite might be true.”

So for example, try pasting this into your Gen AI of choice:

“Clear, structured agendas make meetings more efficient. Play devil’s advocate and argue why a more open, flexible meeting format might spark better ideas.”

Pro version (for when you really want to stress-test your thinking):

“Carefully review the following argument. As a devil’s advocate, your goal is to critically assess the content by identifying any:

- Logical inconsistencies

- Areas of incomplete reasoning

- Overlooked counterpoints

- Potential biases

After you have this, provide suggestions for strengthening the argument, including what additional evidence or perspective might improve its credibility or depth.

Here is the argument: [Paste your argument here]”

Why This Works

Research shows that actively seeking out opposing viewpoints leads to:

More nuanced understanding
Stronger arguments
Better decision-making
Reduced cognitive bias

Plus, it’s an instant way to get a comprehensive critique on our thinking instead of interrupting a co-worker’s Deep Work session to get their thoughts.

Try It Today

Got a big decision coming up? A presentation you need to nail? Or maybe just a strongly-held opinion you haven’t examined lately? Take it for a spin with your favourite AI tool.

Here’s a fun challenge: Try using the devil’s advocate prompt on something you’re absolutely, 100% certain about. The results might surprise you.

Pro Tip:

Remember, the goal isn’t to change your mind (though that might happen). It’s about making your thinking more robust and your arguments more bulletproof.

Cheers

Amantha

P.S. Reply and let me know what surprising insights your AI devil’s advocate reveals - I’m genuinely curious.

P.P.S. Want to fast-track your AI journey? I’m running a hands-on masterclass in Melbourne on November 27 and by popular demand, we are now running the same masterclass in Sydney on February 25, 2025. We are only taking a small group through so these sessions and they are getting close to selling out. If you are keen to be part of this masterclass, book today for Melbourne or Sydney. If you are a paid subscriber to One Percent Better, reply to this email and I’ll send you through a 20% discount code.

P.P.P.S. Did someone forward this to you? Subscribe to One Percent Better here.

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One Percent Better with Dr Amantha Imber