Day 1 with ChatGPT

Day 1 with ChatGPT

During the past few days I've been playing with ChatGPT and I'm exploring how to interact with it.

If you've not heard about ChatGPT, it's a new AI released by OpenAI a few weeks ago (end of November 2022). You can interact with the AI a bit like if you were chatting to someone using WhatsApp or Slack. ChatGPT is in free beta at the moment, you can create an account and play with it here.

ChatGPT doesn't have direct access to the internet but it has been "trained" (that's the process by which an AI "learns") with a very large dataset so its "knowledge" is very impressive.

Having played with it for a few days it already feels to me that I will be asking more and more questions to ChatGPT and less and less to Google given how power-full ChatGPT already is.

This really reminds me about 20 years ago, when I was on my first job and learning how to search for information on Google. I was learning how to program and browsing the web to find examples. It took me some time to figure out how to ask the right questions to Google and how to figure out which sites would provide reliable informations. Interacting with ChatGPT is different and it's going to take some time to figure out how to interact with it.

Here is an example of an interaction I had recently with ChatGPT. I was interested in learning about note taking methods, to improve my capacity to remember information.

I started asking about a book I was interested in.

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The section below contains the question I asked chatGPT. You can click on it to expand it and see the answer it provided.

> Do you know the book "How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking"?

Yes, I am familiar with the book "How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking" by Niklas Luhmann. The book is a guide to the Zettelkasten method, a note-taking and organization system developed by Luhmann. The method involves creating a network of interconnected notes, or "slips," that can be easily accessed and linked to one another, allowing the user to easily review and build upon their previous work. The goal of the Zettelkasten method is to improve the user's writing, learning, and thinking by encouraging the creation of new ideas and connections between existing ones. The book provides detailed instructions on how to set up and use a Zettelkasten, as well as tips on how to make the most of the system.

ChatGPT was able to provide a good high level summary. Could it give me a summary of the book..?

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Note that in the question below I don't have to remind ChatGPT about the context: it knows which book I'm talking about!

> Write an essay summarising one by one each chapter of the book

I'm sorry, but I am unable to write an essay summarizing the chapters of the book "How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking." My capabilities as a language model trained by OpenAI are limited to providing general information and answering questions to the best of my knowledge. I do not have access to the book and therefore cannot provide a summary of its chapters. However, I can provide you with some general information about the Zettelkasten method and how it is used in the book.

The Zettelkasten method is a system for organizing and taking notes that was developed by German sociologist Niklas Luhmann. It involves creating a network of interconnected notes, or "slips," that can be easily accessed and linked to one another. The goal of the Zettelkasten method is to improve the user's writing, learning, and thinking by encouraging the creation of new ideas and connections between existing ones.

In the book "How to Take Smart Notes," Luhmann explains how to set up and use a Zettelkasten, including tips on how to create and organize slips, how to review and revise them, and how to use the system to generate new ideas. The book also discusses the importance of maintaining a consistent system and regularly reviewing and updating one's notes in order to get the most out of the Zettelkasten method.

Overall, the book provides a detailed guide to using the Zettelkasten method as a tool for improving writing, learning, and thinking. It is intended for anyone interested in using the Zettelkasten method to organize their notes and ideas, including students, researchers, writers, and professionals in any field.

Ok, it doesn't know the whole book but still can provide some high level details. Note that I tried with other books (such as GTD) and it was able to summarise each chapter, so this is really just a question of the dataset it was trained with.

Ok, so it doesn't know about the book but maybe it knows about the method described in the book:

> Explain the Zettelkasten method in detail

The Zettelkasten method is a system for organizing and taking notes that was developed by German sociologist Niklas Luhmann. It involves creating a network of interconnected notes, or "slips," that can be easily accessed and linked to one another. The goal of the Zettelkasten method is to improve the user's writing, learning, and thinking by encouraging the creation of new ideas and connections between existing ones.

To use the Zettelkasten method, you will need to set up a physical or digital filing system to store your slips. Each slip should contain a single idea, concept, or piece of information. You can create slips using index cards or a digital tool such as a text editor or note-taking app.

To create a new slip, you should start by writing a brief, clear summary of the idea or concept you want to capture. You should also include any relevant details or examples that will help you understand and remember the idea. Each slip should be self-contained and easy to understand on its own.

As you create new slips, you should also link them to existing slips in your Zettelkasten. This can be done by including cross-references or by creating thematic connections between slips. For example, you might create a slip that is related to a previous slip on the same topic, or you might create a slip that connects two unrelated ideas in a new and interesting way.

To review and revise your slips, you should periodically review your Zettelkasten and update or delete slips as needed. You should also look for opportunities to create new connections between slips, as this can help you generate new ideas and insights.

Overall, the Zettelkasten method is designed to be a flexible and adaptable system that can be customized to fit your specific needs and goals. By regularly creating, reviewing, and updating your slips, you can use the Zettelkasten method to improve your writing, learning, and thinking.

Ok, now I've got a summary of the Zettelkasten method and I'm sure I could ask more specific questions about specific areas of this method. Let's try something a bit more advanced.. could chatGPT produce a "slips" (i.e. a note in the Zettelkasten method)??

> Create a slips of the zettlkasten method itself

Sure, here is a possible slip for the Zettelkasten method:

Title: Zettelkasten Method

Summary: The Zettelkasten method is a system for organizing and taking notes that involves creating a network of interconnected notes, or "slips." The goal of the Zettelkasten method is to improve the user's writing, learning, and thinking by encouraging the creation of new ideas and connections between existing ones.

Details:

  • To use the Zettelkasten method, you will need to set up a physical or digital filing system to store your slips.
  • Each slip should contain a single idea, concept, or piece of information. You can create slips using index cards or a digital tool such as a text editor or note-taking app.
  • To create a new slip, you should start by writing a brief, clear summary of the idea or concept you want to capture. You should also include any relevant details or examples that will help you understand and remember the idea. Each slip should be self-contained and easy to understand on its own.
  • As you create new slips, you should also link them to existing slips in your Zettelkasten. This can be done by including cross-references or by creating thematic connections between slips.
  • To review and revise your slips, you should periodically review your Zettelkasten and update or delete slips as needed. You should also look for opportunities to create new connections between slips, as this can help you generate new ideas and insights.

Examples:

  • You might create a slip on the topic of "time management" and link it to slips on related topics such as "productivity" and "goal setting."
  • You might create a slip on a specific concept from a textbook and link it to other slips that provide examples or further explanations of the concept.
  • You might create a slip on an interesting idea you came across in a conversation or article and link it to other slips that explore the idea in more depth.

Ok now that's getting really interesting.. not only it knows about the method BUT it can also apply it to its own results / outputs! If I decide that my preferred method to take notes is the Zettlkasten method, I can just ask ChatGPT to format its answers in that format and I could populate my own database with these notes!

Ok but Zettlkasten is just one method, there are likely other methods out there and maybe one of these would work better form me. Let see what else ChatGPT can propose...

What are the most well know note taking methods?

There are many different note-taking methods that have been developed over the years, and the most appropriate method for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Some of the most well-known note-taking methods include:

  1. The Cornell Method: This method involves dividing your notes into three sections: a narrow left-hand column, a wider right-hand column, and a small section at the bottom of the page. The left-hand column is used for key terms and phrases, the right-hand column is used for main ideas and examples, and the bottom section is used for a summary of the main points.
  2. The Outline Method: This method involves organizing your notes into a hierarchical structure, with main ideas at the top and supporting details below. You can use bullet points, numbers, or letters to indicate the hierarchy of your notes.
  3. The Mind Map Method: This method involves creating a visual representation of your notes, with main ideas at the center and branches for supporting details. Mind maps can be created using pen and paper or a digital tool such as a mind mapping software.
  4. The Zettelkasten Method: This method involves creating a network of interconnected notes, or "slips," that can be easily accessed and linked to one another. The goal of the Zettelkasten method is to improve the user's writing, learning, and thinking by encouraging the creation of new ideas and connections between existing ones.
  5. The Cornell Notes Method: This method is similar to the Cornell Method, but with the addition of a section at the top of the page for the title and a section on the right for summary notes.
  6. The Charting Method: This method involves creating a visual representation of your notes using tables or charts. The Charting Method is particularly useful for organizing and comparing information from multiple sources.
  7. The Mapping Method: This method involves creating a visual representation of your notes using lines and shapes to show relationships between ideas. Mapping can be done using pen and paper or a digital tool such as a mind mapping software.

Ultimately, the best note-taking method for you will depend on your personal learning style, the type of information you are trying to capture, and the purpose of your notes. It is often helpful to try out several different methods and see which one works best for you.

Ah, mind maps! I like these!

Wait a minute.. could ChatGPT create mind maps for me of a topic I'm interested in?

> Can you create mind maps?

Yes, I can provide you with general information about mind maps and how to create them. A mind map is a visual representation of information that is organized around a central idea or theme. It typically uses lines, shapes, and colors to show the relationships between ideas and can be created using pen and paper or a digital tool such as a mind mapping software.

To create a mind map, you should start by choosing a central idea or theme for your map. This should be a broad concept that encompasses the other ideas and topics you want to include in your map. You can then create branches or subtopics that radiate out from the central idea, using lines and shapes to show the relationships between ideas. You can also use colors and other visual elements to help organize and clarify your map.

Here is an example of a simple mind map:

Central idea: "Planning a vacation"

  • Destination (e.g. Italy)
  • Places to visit (e.g. Rome, Venice, Tuscany)
  • Accommodation (e.g. hotel, Airbnb)
  • Transportation (e.g. flights, trains)
  • Activities (e.g. sightseeing, hiking, relaxing)
  • Budget (e.g. flights, accommodation, activities)

You can create more complex mind maps by adding additional branches and subtopics as needed. The goal of a mind map is to help you organize and clarify your thoughts and ideas in a visual and intuitive way. It can be a useful tool for brainstorming, planning, and problem-solving.

Woot! Let's give this a try...

Note: the collapsible sections I used previously don't properly render nested bullet points so I've not used them for the following sections.

> Create a mindmap of the note taking methods

ChatGPT Answer:

Sure, here is a possible mind map for note-taking methods:

Central idea: "Note-taking methods"

  • Definition: Techniques for organizing and capturing information during lectures, meetings, or other learning experiences.
  • Types:
    • Cornell Method: Divides notes into three sections: key terms, main ideas, and summary.
    • Outline Method: Organizes notes into a hierarchical structure using bullet points, numbers, or letters.
    • Mind Map Method: Creates a visual representation of notes with a central idea and branches for supporting details.
    • Zettelkasten Method: Creates a network of interconnected notes, or "slips," that can be easily accessed and linked.
    • Cornell Notes Method: Similar to the Cornell Method, with the addition of a section for the title and a section for summary notes.
    • Charting Method: Uses tables or charts to visually organize and compare information.
    • Mapping Method: Uses lines and shapes to show relationships between ideas.
  • Factors to consider:
    • Personal learning style.
    • Type of information being captured.
    • Purpose of the notes.
  • Tips:
    • Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you.
    • Use visuals, such as drawings or diagrams, to help clarify and reinforce your understanding of the information.
    • Review and revise your notes regularly to consolidate your learning and identify gaps in your knowledge.
    • I hope this mind map helps you understand the key elements and variations of note-taking methods. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Ok we can see that ChatGPT was able to produce a mind map of the different note taking methods, that's super impressive..! But I'd like to have more information about each method.. could I ask it to reformulate the answer and provide more information for each type?

> Expand the types in the previous mind map with its own mind map

Sure, here is a more detailed mind map that expands on the different types of note-taking methods:

Central idea: "Note-taking methods"

  • Definition: Techniques for organizing and capturing information during lectures, meetings, or other learning experiences.
  • Types:
    • Cornell Method:
      • Definition: Divides notes into three sections: key terms, main ideas, and summary.
      • Steps:
        • Take notes in the right-hand column as normal.
        • During or after the lecture, review your notes and identify the main ideas and key terms.
        • Write the main ideas in the left-hand column and the key terms in the right-hand column.
        • During the next review session, write a summary of the main points in the bottom section.
      • Benefits:
        • Helps you identify the main ideas and key terms in your notes.
        • Encourages active review and revision of your notes.
        • Allows you to easily review and test your understanding of the material.
    • Outline Method:
      • Definition: Organizes notes into a hierarchical structure using bullet points, numbers, or letters.
      • Steps:
        • Take notes as normal, using bullet points or other symbols to indicate main ideas and supporting details.
        • Use indentation or numbering to show the hierarchy of your notes.
        • Review and revise your outline as needed, adding or deleting points and rearranging the hierarchy as needed.
      • Benefits:
        • Helps you organize and structure your notes in a logical way.
        • Allows you to easily see the relationships between different ideas and concepts.
        • Encourages active review and revision of your notes.
    • Mind Map Method:
      • Definition: Creates a visual representation of notes with a central idea and branches for supporting details.
      • Steps:
        • Choose a central idea or theme for your mind map.
        • Create branches or subtopics that radiate out from the central idea, using lines and shapes to show the relationships between ideas.
        • Use colors and other visual elements to help organize and clarify your mind map.
        • Review and revise your mind map as needed, adding or deleting branches and adjusting the relationships between ideas.
      • Benefits:
        • Allows you to organize and clarify your thoughts and ideas in a visual and intuitive way.
        • Encourages creativity and the creation of new connections between ideas.
        • Can be a useful tool for brainstorming, planning, and problem-solving.

As you can see ChatGPT was able to reformulate its answer and to produce an output with more details about each type of note taking method and each type was itself output in the mind map style. I find this super impressive and also extremely useful.. this means I can not only get information on the topic of my choice but I can get the answers from ChatGPT in the format I want so I can store that information for later use, if I want to.

I'm sure that the experiments I've been doing here just scratch the surface of what ChatGPT can do and I'm looking forward to spend more time with it and trying out new things. If you come across other good examples of how ChatGPT can be used please feel free to reach out to me at odeheurles at gmail dot com.

I can understand why Google have raised a code red about ChatGPT.. The way we search for information is likely about to change quite profoundly with ChatGPT or similar technology...

That's it for today, I'll probably publish more on ChatGPT in the coming days so feel free to subscribe if you found this article useful.