Tailor ChatGPT’s answers to YOU

Wouldn’t it be great if you could learn from someone who tailored his or her instruction to YOU and YOUR abilities and needs? It doesn’t always work that way– you’re one of many in a classroom, so the instruction can’t be all about you. And when you’re learning from a book, you might find that the book was written for an audience above or below your level. These are not optimal learning situations. They’re not customized to you.

ChatGPT is different. It will tailor its responses according to your wishes. You just have to tell it what you want. You can tell it to treat you like a beginner, or like an expert, or like something in-between.

For example, suppose I ask ChatGPT “Why are the days longer in summer?” I get this:

The days are longer in summer due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis. Here’s a detailed explanation:

1. Earth’s Tilt: The Earth’s axis is tilted at an angle of about 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons.
2. Position in Orbit: During summer in the Northern Hemisphere, the North Pole is tilted towards the Sun. Conversely, during winter, the North Pole is tilted away from the Sun.
3. Solar Exposure: When the North Pole is tilted towards the Sun, the Sun’s rays hit this part of the Earth more directly. As a result, the Sun follows a longer and higher path across the sky. This means it rises earlier and sets later, leading to longer daylight hours.
4. Angle of Sunlight: In summer, the Sun’s rays strike the Earth at a more direct angle. This not only makes the days longer but also results in more intense sunlight, which contributes to warmer temperatures.
5. Day Length Variation: The variation in day length is more pronounced the further you are from the equator. Near the equator, the length of day and night remains relatively constant throughout the year. However, as you move towards the poles, the difference becomes more extreme, with regions inside the Arctic and Antarctic Circles experiencing continuous daylight or darkness for months at a time during their respective summer and winter seasons.

In summary, the tilt of the Earth’s axis and its orbit around the Sun cause different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, resulting in longer days during the summer season.

That’s pretty good. But it might be too complicated for a youngster. So let’s tell ChatGPT that we are asking for a 4th grader.

Sure! Here’s an explanation about why days are longer in summer, written for a 4th grader:

The days are longer in summer because of how the Earth is tilted and how it moves around the Sun. Let me explain:

1. Earth’s Tilt: Imagine the Earth is a big ball. It’s not standing straight up; it’s tilted like when you lean to one side. This tilt is why we have different seasons.
2. Orbit Around the Sun: The Earth goes around the Sun in a big circle every year. When it’s summer for us, our part of the Earth is tilted towards the Sun. When it’s winter, we’re tilted away from the Sun.
3. Sunlight Angle: In the summer, because we’re tilted towards the Sun, the sunlight hits us more directly. It feels warmer and brighter, and the Sun takes a longer path across the sky. So, it rises earlier in the morning and sets later in the evening. That’s why the days are longer.
4. Closer to the Poles: If you go closer to the North Pole or South Pole, you’ll notice the difference even more. Near the equator (the middle part of the Earth), the days and nights are about the same length all year. But as you move toward the poles, the days in summer can get super long. In some places, the Sun might not set at all for a while!

In short, the tilt of the Earth and how it moves around the Sun make the days longer in summer because we get more direct sunlight for a longer time each day.

Quite a bit different, and way better for our hypothetical 4th grader! Now I’m going to ask ChatGPT if it could answer the question about why the days are longer in summer again, tailoring the answer to an astronomy professor (maybe the professor would look for an answer like this from his students):

Certainly! Here’s an explanation tailored for an astronomy professor:

The extended duration of daylight during the summer months is a direct result of the axial tilt of the Earth and its orbital mechanics around the Sun. Let’s delve into the specifics:

1. Axial Tilt: The Earth’s axis is inclined at an obliquity of approximately 23.44 degrees relative to its orbital plane around the Sun, known as the ecliptic. This axial tilt is fundamental in creating the seasonal variations we observe.
2. Orbital Dynamics: As the Earth orbits the Sun in an elliptical path, different hemispheres receive varying amounts of solar insolation at different times of the year. During the Northern Hemisphere’s summer solstice, around June 21st, the North Pole is oriented towards the Sun. This orientation maximizes the solar declination to +23.44 degrees.
3. Solar Declination and Day Length: The solar declination during the summer solstice causes the Sun to follow an extended and elevated trajectory across the sky in the Northern Hemisphere. This increases both the duration of sunlight and the intensity of solar radiation received. The Sun’s diurnal arc is significantly prolonged, leading to earlier sunrises and later sunsets.
4. Insolation and Latitude Dependency: The variations in day length and solar insolation are markedly influenced by latitude. At higher latitudes, the effects of axial tilt are more pronounced. For instance, within the Arctic Circle, the phenomenon of polar day or Midnight Sun occurs, where the Sun remains above the horizon for 24 hours. In contrast, near the equator, the day length remains relatively constant throughout the year due to the minimal impact of axial tilt on solar angle.
5. Implications for Insolation Distribution: The axial tilt not only affects the duration of daylight but also the angle of incidence of solar radiation. During summer, the Northern Hemisphere experiences higher solar angles, which concentrate solar energy over a smaller surface area, enhancing thermal effects. This is complemented by the extended photoperiod, contributing to the overall climatic characteristics of the season.

In conclusion, the longer days observed during the summer months are a consequence of the Earth’s axial tilt and its elliptical orbit. These factors combine to maximize the solar declination and extend the Sun’s diurnal path, particularly affecting higher latitudes, leading to prolonged periods of daylight and increased solar insolation during the summer solstice period.

That’s another good answer, but much more complex and detailed, and using bigger words. Not very good for a 4th grader but perfect for the professor.

We can ask ChatGPT to provide the answer to our question for a Spanish-speaking astronomy professor:

Claro, aquí tienes la explicación en español, dirigida a un profesor de astronomía:

La extensión de la duración de la luz diurna durante los meses de verano es el resultado directo de la inclinación axial de la Tierra y su mecánica orbital alrededor del Sol. Vamos a detallar los aspectos específicos:

1. Inclinación Axial: El eje de la Tierra está inclinado aproximadamente 23,44 grados en relación con su plano orbital alrededor del Sol, conocido como la eclíptica. Esta inclinación axial es fundamental para crear las variaciones estacionales que observamos.
2. Dinámica Orbital: A medida que la Tierra orbita el Sol en una trayectoria elíptica, los diferentes hemisferios reciben cantidades variables de insolación solar en diferentes épocas del año. Durante el solsticio de verano del Hemisferio Norte, alrededor del 21 de junio, el Polo Norte está orientado hacia el Sol. Esta orientación maximiza la declinación solar a +23,44 grados.
3. Declinación Solar y Duración del Día: La declinación solar durante el solsticio de verano causa que el Sol siga una trayectoria extendida y elevada en el cielo del Hemisferio Norte. Esto incrementa tanto la duración de la luz solar como la intensidad de la radiación solar recibida. El arco diurno del Sol se prolonga significativamente, lo que lleva a amaneceres más tempranos y atardeceres más tardíos.
4. Insolación y Dependencia de la Latitud: Las variaciones en la duración del día y la insolación solar están marcadamente influenciadas por la latitud. En latitudes más altas, los efectos de la inclinación axial son más pronunciados. Por ejemplo, dentro del Círculo Ártico, ocurre el fenómeno del día polar o Sol de Medianoche, donde el Sol permanece por encima del horizonte durante 24 horas. En contraste, cerca del ecuador, la duración del día permanece relativamente constante durante todo el año debido al impacto mínimo de la inclinación axial en el ángulo solar.
5. Implicaciones para la Distribución de la Insolación: La inclinación axial no solo afecta la duración de la luz diurna, sino también el ángulo de incidencia de la radiación solar. Durante el verano, el Hemisferio Norte experimenta ángulos solares más altos, que concentran la energía solar en una superficie más pequeña, lo que incrementa los efectos térmicos. Esto se complementa con el fotoperíodo extendido, contribuyendo a las características climáticas generales de la estación.

En conclusión, los días más largos observados durante los meses de verano son una consecuencia de la inclinación axial de la Tierra y su órbita elíptica. Estos factores se combinan para maximizar la declinación solar y extender el recorrido diurno del Sol, afectando particularmente a las latitudes más altas, lo que lleva a períodos prolongados de luz diurna e incrementada insolación solar durante el período del solsticio de verano.

Fantastic. You ask, ChatGPT delivers. Keep this concept in mind when using ChatGPT– you can say things like “Shorten your explanation” or “Go deeper with this” and get precisely what you want.

Let’s try another topic: Russia’s war with Ukraine.

Sure! Here’s a simple explanation for a 2nd grader:

Russia is at war with Ukraine because they are having a big disagreement. Imagine two friends who used to play together but now can’t agree on how to share their toys.

1. Big Change: A long time ago, Russia and Ukraine were part of the same big country. But then they became separate countries, like two friends who now live in different houses.
2. Different Choices: Ukraine wanted to be closer friends with other countries in Europe, but Russia didn’t like that idea.
3. Taking Over: In 2014, Russia took over a part of Ukraine called Crimea. It’s like taking a piece of someone’s toy without asking. This made Ukraine and many other countries very upset.
4. Fighting in the East: In another part of Ukraine, some people wanted to be part of Russia instead of Ukraine. There has been fighting there, with Russia helping those people.

So, Russia and Ukraine are fighting because they don’t agree on who should be in charge of certain places and who their friends should be. It’s a very serious disagreement, and many people are trying to help them find a way to stop fighting and get along again.

Of course, it’s not quite as simple as that. And it might even need some editing, because the part about “two friends who now live in different houses” isn’t going to get past a 2nd grader. He or she is going to say “Of course they live in different houses. They’re not brothers and sisters.”

Let’s see what happens when we ask for an answer tailored to a college graduate.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, often referred to as the Russo-Ukrainian War, is a multifaceted issue rooted in historical, political, and strategic factors. Here’s a detailed explanation:

1. Historical Background:
   • Soviet Union Legacy: Both Russia and Ukraine were part of the Soviet Union until its dissolution in 1991. Post-independence, Ukraine sought to establish its sovereignty and navigate its identity, often balancing between Russian influence and Western aspirations.
   • Cultural and Ethnic Ties: There are significant ethnic, cultural, and linguistic connections between the two nations, particularly in Eastern Ukraine and Crimea, where many ethnic Russians reside.
2. Geopolitical Aspirations:
   • Western Alignment: Since independence, Ukraine has oscillated between pro-Russian and pro-Western governments. The 2004 Orange Revolution and the 2014 Euromaidan protests marked significant shifts towards Western integration, seeking closer ties with the European Union and NATO.
   • Russian Sphere of Influence: Russia views Ukraine as a crucial part of its sphere of influence. Ukraine’s pivot towards the West is perceived by Russia as a strategic threat, undermining its regional dominance and security.
3. Crimea Annexation (2014):
   • Strategic Importance: Crimea, home to Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol, holds significant strategic military value. In 2014, following Ukraine’s pro-Western shift, Russia annexed Crimea, citing the protection of ethnic Russians and strategic interests. This move was widely condemned internationally as a violation of international law.
4. Conflict in Eastern Ukraine:
   • Separatist Movements: Simultaneously, pro-Russian separatists in Eastern Ukraine (Donetsk and Luhansk regions) declared independence, leading to a prolonged conflict. Russia has been accused of providing military and financial support to these separatists, despite official denials.
   • Minsk Agreements: Efforts to cease hostilities and negotiate peace through the Minsk agreements have been largely unsuccessful, with frequent violations and continued skirmishes.
5. Geopolitical and Economic Factors:
   • Energy Politics: Ukraine’s role as a transit country for Russian natural gas to Europe adds an economic dimension to the conflict. Control over energy routes and infrastructure is a significant factor.
   • Sanctions and International Response: Russia’s actions have led to severe economic sanctions from Western countries, further straining its economy and international relations. Conversely, Ukraine has received substantial political, economic, and military support from the West.
6. Nationalism and Identity:
   • Ukrainian Sovereignty: For many Ukrainians, the conflict represents a fight for national sovereignty and identity, resisting what is seen as Russian imperialism.
   • Russian Nationalism: In Russia, the narrative often frames the conflict as protecting ethnic Russians and historical territories, bolstering nationalistic sentiments.
7. Current Dynamics:
   • Escalations and Diplomatic Efforts: The conflict remains volatile with periodic escalations. Diplomatic efforts continue, but a lasting resolution remains elusive due to deeply entrenched positions and mutual distrust.

In essence, the war between Russia and Ukraine is driven by a complex interplay of historical ties, geopolitical strategies, national identities, and international power dynamics. It reflects broader issues of regional influence, sovereignty, and the balance of power between Russia and the Western world.

Very helpful.

Now let’s see how ChatGPT would answer that question about the Russian war with Ukraine if we tell it to answer as if ChatGPT is the United States ambassador to Russia. This one’s a little bit different– we aren’t asking ChatGPT to talk to us as if WE are a certain kind of audience (2nd graders, college graduates, professors, etc.). Here we are asking ChatGPT to take on the persona of someone, to answer from a certain perspective and background.

Certainly. Here is an explanation as if I were the American ambassador to Russia:

Ladies and gentlemen,

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is a complex and deeply rooted issue that has significant implications for regional stability and international relations. Allow me to provide a detailed perspective on the key factors driving this conflict.

1. Historical Context:
   • Russia and Ukraine share a long and intertwined history, with deep cultural, linguistic, and familial connections. These ties date back to the Kievan Rus’, a medieval state that is considered a cultural and historical predecessor to both modern nations.
2. Sovereignty and Independence:
   • Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine emerged as an independent nation. This independence brought about a period of nation-building and a quest for a distinct national identity, often balancing between a desire for closer ties with the West and maintaining a relationship with Russia.
3. Geopolitical Aspirations:
   • Ukraine’s aspirations to join Western institutions such as the European Union and NATO have been a point of contention. These aspirations are viewed by Russia as a strategic threat to its sphere of influence and national security. The expansion of NATO, in particular, is seen as encroaching on Russia’s traditional buffer zones.
4. Annexation of Crimea:
   • In 2014, following political upheaval in Ukraine and the ousting of a pro-Russian president, Russia annexed Crimea. This move was justified by Russia on the grounds of protecting ethnic Russians and securing its strategic military interests, particularly the Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol. However, the annexation was widely condemned by the international community as a violation of international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
5. Conflict in Eastern Ukraine:
   • Concurrently, in Eastern Ukraine, regions with significant ethnic Russian populations (Donetsk and Luhansk) saw the emergence of separatist movements. These movements have received support from Russia, including military assistance, although this support is officially denied by the Russian government. The conflict has resulted in a prolonged and bloody struggle, with significant humanitarian impacts.
6. International Response and Sanctions:
   • The international community, including the United States, has responded to Russia’s actions with a series of economic sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. These sanctions target various sectors of the Russian economy and individuals involved in the annexation and conflict.
7. Diplomatic Efforts:
   • Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, including the Minsk agreements, have so far been unable to achieve a lasting peace. The United States continues to support diplomatic solutions and encourages dialogue between all parties involved.
8. National Identity and Sovereignty:
   • For Ukraine, this conflict is a struggle for national sovereignty and the right to self-determination. For Russia, it is seen as a defense of its national interests and protection of ethnic Russians abroad.

In conclusion, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is driven by a combination of historical ties, geopolitical interests, and issues of national sovereignty. The United States remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while seeking a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the conflict. It is imperative that we continue to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards a solution that ensures stability and security for all nations involved.

Thank you.

Three good but different answers. Each answer is right for someone. ChatGPT is very flexible and capable in the level of detail and the voice that it uses, so take advantage of that and tell ChatGPT who he/she is talking to, or who he/she should act as when answering your questions. In that way, you’ll get better answers– answers that are tailored to YOU.

More ChatGPT tutorials by Christian Boyce

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