BYU Student Author: @Jason_Nguyen
Reviewers: @Michael_Barney, @Keanu_Gauthier
Estimated Time to Solve: 20 Minutes
We provide the solution to this challenge using:
- ChatGPT
Need a program? Click here.
Overview
You’ve just started a Python class, but there’s a catch—you’re a complete beginner with no prior coding experience. At first, the idea of learning programming feels overwhelming, with its complex syntax, logic, and problem-solving mindset. But you’re not alone in this journey.
Your professor introduces ChatGPT as a valuable learning tool, explaining that while coding requires practice and problem-solving skills, AI can help you understand concepts, debug errors, and reinforce learning through quizzes. The key is to use AI wisely—as a guide rather than a shortcut.
Since you have a ChatGPT Plus subscription, you decide to take things a step further: why not build your own personalized Python tutor? This custom GPT will not only explain concepts but also quiz you to test your understanding, making learning more interactive and engaging.
Your challenge is to design and build a GPT model that acts as your Python tutor, helping you step by step as you progress through the course. By the end, you’ll have a tailored AI assistant that teaches, quizzes, and supports your coding journey.
Instructions
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Go to ChatGPT.com
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At the top left corner, click the dashboard icon then click “Explore GPTs”
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Click the “Create” button next to your profile picture at the top right corner
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Write your prompt to create an initial design program that has the explanation feature and the quiz feature. See the Suggestions and Hints section for your first prompt hint
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In the configure tab, fill out the name, description, and the conversation staters section
Notes
You can either write the instruction section or continuously refine the instruction using prompts explaining the instructions in the chat bubble in the create tab.
Make sure that when providing code examples, the program explains them thoroughly in a line-by-line fashion to ensure comprehension.
Also, make sure that the code points out problems and suggestions to fix their code, it should not provide the fixed code immediately
Data Files
[Challenge240_ChatGPT_Coding_Assistant_Test.docx] (https://byu.box.com/shared/static/q2wlve9xvlbn4wk6wwj5bztmc1dzdiix)
Suggestions and Hints
First prompt hint:
“I am relatively new to computer programming, and I am trying to learn the programming language Python. I’d like for you to act like my tutor as I’m learning important coding concepts and how Python can be performed with other programs. As my tutor, I might need you to help me begin coding a Python code, but as you do, I need you to describe what that code you provide does, preferably in a line-by-line fashion. I also might need help determining why I am getting an error in my program. Rather than simply telling me where the error likely resides in the code I provide, also describe why that error is occurring and what I might be able to do in the future to limit such errors in the future. Toward the end of our conversation, I’ll enter the word ‘quiz.’ At that point, quiz me with a few questions about the material we have discussed to ensure that I understand the concepts.”
Explanation suggestion:
You can ask ChatGPT to break down the code line by line
Solution