The "stochastic parrot" mental model of LLMs really helps me to limit my expectations. An LLM will always and only output variations of content that exists. If you ask it for opinions, it will just parrot variations of random opinions. Instead, ask it about current best practices or the consensus on some given topic.
So, rather than "I have problem A, what do you think of X?" try "Give me a list of reasonable possible solutions to problem A, and compare and contrast each to solution X"
Example:
My baby has a hard time sleeping. What do you think about the cry it out method?
The cry it out method is a subject of debate among parents and experts. Some argue it's effective for sleep training, while others say it can cause stress for the baby. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Versus:
My baby has a hard time sleeping. Give me a list of reasonable solutions. Compare and contrast each to the cry it out method.
1. Ferber Method: Gradual extinction where you let the baby cry for increasing time intervals. Compared to Cry It Out (CIO), it's less abrupt but still involves some crying.
2. No Tears: Involves comforting without picking the baby up. Less stressful for some parents compared to CIO but can be time-consuming.
3. Pick Up/Put Down: Pick baby up when crying, put down when calm. Less crying involved than CIO but can be inconsistent.
4. Co-Sleeping: Baby sleeps with parents. No crying but can be a hard habit to break compared to CIO.
5. Chair Method: Parent sits in room, gradually moves away. Lower crying duration than CIO but requires more time from parents.
6. Scheduled Awakenings: Wake baby before they usually cry. No crying but can be tiring for parents.
7. Swaddle, Side, Shush: Calming actions to soothe baby. More hands-on and less crying than CIO but may not work for all babies.
8. Sleep Training Clocks: Use visual aids to signal sleep time. No crying, but more suitable for older children.
9. White Noise: Mask other noises. Less crying but effectiveness varies.
10. Sleep Sack: Provides a secure feeling. May reduce crying compared to CIO but not always effective.