How to Use AI the Right Way in School (So It Helps You, Not Hurts You)

Imagine this: You’ve got a big assignment due tomorrow. Instead of thinking it through, you go straight to an AI tool, ask it a question, copy and paste the answer, and turn it in.

Sounds easy, right?

Here’s the problem: If AI is doing all the thinking for you... you’re not actually learning.

Hi, I’m Kantis Simmons, and welcome to The Kantis Simmons Show, where I help students like you ace school, land scholarships, and succeed in life. In today’s post, I want to show you how to use AI the smart way—as a tool to study better, not a shortcut to do the work for you.

Let’s jump in.

🤖 AI Isn’t the Enemy (If You Use It Right)

AI is changing how we live, work, and study—but it’s not here to replace your brain. It’s not the villain. In fact, when used correctly, AI can help you understand your schoolwork better and faster.

Let me show you how.

✅ 3 Smart Ways to Use AI in School

1. Brainstorming & Researching

Feeling stuck on a paper topic or project idea? AI can help spark ideas, structure your outline, and give you new angles to explore.
But remember: don’t copy and paste. Use it to jump-start your own thinking, not replace it.

💡 Use ChatGPT to ask:
“What are some creative angles for a paper on climate change and student activism?”

2. Summarizing Complex Texts

Got a long chapter to read? AI can break it down into key points, saving you time. Tools like ChatGPT or other summarizers can act like a study buddy, helping you grasp the main ideas.

But heads up: You still need to understand what’s being summarized. AI gives the outline—you do the learning.

3. Practicing Languages & Problem Solving

Want to practice Spanish? Need help with math equations? AI can help translate, pronounce, or walk you through problems step-by-step—just like a tutor.

❌ 3 Dangerous Ways Students Misuse AI

Now let’s flip it. Here’s what not to do when using AI:

1. Don’t Copy and Paste Assignments

It’s tempting. But when AI writes your essay, you’re missing the critical thinking process—and your teacher can tell. Trust me, when everyone in the class turns in a similar AI-generated essay, it’s obvious.

There was even a college where the entire class failed because the essays all sounded alike. Don’t be that student.

2. Don’t Trust Everything AI Says

AI isn’t always right. In fact, it often gets things wrong or gives outdated information. Always verify, fact-check, and edit anything AI provides.

3. Don’t Skip the Learning Process

AI can make things faster, but it shouldn't replace the grind of learning. Because when it’s test day, and it’s just you and a pencil—AI won’t be there to help you.

🧠 Think of AI as Your Study Sidekick

You’re the hero of your learning journey. AI is your assistant—not the main character. Use it to:

• Brainstorm and organize thoughts

• Summarize readings

• Practice foreign languages

• Understand tough math problems

• Improve your grammar and writing

But still do the work. Because real growth happens when you think, struggle a bit, and figure things out on your own.

🔧 My Favorite AI Tools for Students

Here are 3 of my go-to AI tools that can truly help you succeed in school:

1. Grammarly

Use it to check grammar, improve sentence structure, and strengthen your writing—after you’ve written your own paper.

2. Wolfram Alpha

Perfect for math. It walks you step-by-step through how to solve equations so you can actually learn the process.

3. ChatGPT

A great assistant for quick research, organizing ideas, or practicing conversations. I use it all the time—even to plan birthday ideas for my mom!

📝 Final Thoughts

AI is here to stay. It’s powerful, it’s helpful—but it’s only as smart as the student using it. Don’t let it make you lazy. Let it make you better.

Be curious. Be responsible. And above all, be a student who still loves to learn.

If you found this helpful, share it with a classmate who might be relying a little too much on AI.
And if you want more tips on acing school and landing scholarships, make sure to follow me right here on The Kantis Simmons Show.