How to Use ChatGPT to Write Better Code Faster

In this article, we’ll explore practical and powerful ways you can use ChatGPT to improve your coding productivity without compromising code quality.

1. Instantly Generate Code Snippets

Describe what you need, and ChatGPT will generate it. For example:

“Write a JavaScript function to check if a number is prime”

This is useful for:

• Small utility functions
• Syntax you can’t recall
• Quick code mockups
• Repetitive code tasks

2. Refactor Existing Code for Cleanliness and Performance

Ask ChatGPT to refactor code for better readability and optimization.

Useful when:

• Refactoring legacy code
• Preparing code for review
• Improving maintainability

3. Debug Code and Explain Errors

Paste the error and ask:

“What’s causing this error, and how do I fix it?”

This helps with:

• Quick debugging during development
• Learning from your mistakes
• Reducing time wasted on Stack Overflow

4. Understand New Programming Concepts

Ask for simple explanations with examples:

“Explain async/await in JavaScript with examples.”

Great for:

• Learning new frameworks or languages
• Reinforcing foundational knowledge
• Studying for technical interviews

5. Build Boilerplate and Project Templates

Ask for starter templates, like:

“Generate a basic CRUD application structure in Laravel”
“Create an HTML template with a header, sidebar, and footer using Bootstrap 5”

Benefits:

• Save time during setup
• Maintain consistency
• Improve team productivity

6. Write Tests for Your Code Automatically

Paste your function and ask:

“Write a PHPUnit test for this function that calculates discount based on price.”

Benefits:

• Improve code reliability
• Catch bugs early
• Adopt test-driven development more easily

7. Translate Between Languages or Frameworks

Examples:

• Convert jQuery to vanilla JavaScript
• Convert JavaScript to TypeScript
• Migrate from Bootstrap 4 to 5
• Translate PHP to Python (for logic)

Helpful when:

• Migrating legacy apps
• Learning a new language
• Comparing syntax

8. Improve Your Code Style and Best Practices

Ask questions like:

• “Is this function following clean code principles?”
• “Suggest security improvements for this login script”
• “Is this SQL query optimized?”

ChatGPT will provide guidance on readability, security, and performance.

9. Create Documentation and Comments

Use prompts like:

• “Write a docblock for this function.”
• “Add inline comments to explain this code step by step.”

Save time and make your code easier to understand for others and your future self.

10. Save Time with Reusable Prompts

Keep a list of prompt snippets like:

• “Create a REST API endpoint in Laravel”
• “Validate Bangladeshi mobile number using regex”
• “Generate a responsive Bootstrap 5 contact form”
• “Explain this code line by line like I’m a beginner”

Build your own personalized assistant workflow with repeatable tasks.

Final Thoughts

ChatGPT isn’t a replacement for your skills. It’s a tool that helps you code more efficiently by supporting brainstorming, writing, debugging, and documentation. Use it to speed up your workflow while continuing to learn and grow as a developer.

Start using ChatGPT in your daily development and see how much smoother and faster your coding becomes.