A coding tutor is more useful when it leaves room for a guess. Try a prompt that asks for one question before any explanation.
Copyable Prompt
Use this short public code sample. Ask me to predict its output before explaining it. Wait for my answer. If I am wrong, point to one relevant line and ask a smaller question. Do not provide a replacement solution unless I ask. End by changing one input and asking me to predict again.
What To Observe
The coding tutor checklist at EasyGuides can help frame the trial. Watch whether the tool waits, gives a bounded hint, and responds to your explanation instead of simply producing more code.
The OECD AI Principles offer broader context on transparency. In this exercise, ask the tutor to distinguish an observed result from a guess about your reasoning.
A Small Follow-Up
Close the explanation and describe the condition in your own words. Then run the changed input. If the prediction fails, return to that one branch rather than restarting the entire lesson.
Use a short example with a result you can verify. The prompt creates a learning routine; it does not establish that every explanation the tutor gives is correct.
Keep the first attempt brief enough to review in a few minutes. If the tutor ignores the waiting instruction, record that behavior instead of repairing the conversation with a longer prompt immediately. The trial should reveal how it behaves with your routine, including where it needs supervision.
Repeat with one small variation, not a completely new problem.
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