How I Use ChatGPT as a Developer (Real-World Examples) - HiddenProtocols

Also read: Top 5 VS Code Extensions Every Developer Should Use

As a developer, one of the tools I've introduced into my process in recent years wasn't a code editor, framework or browser extension – it's an AI. One called ChatGPT, in particular. Something I was curious to try has quickly become an extremely useful, everyday utility. When I've issues to solve, boilerplate code to create and project concepts to brainstorm, ChatGPT helps me to work smarter/slower. you are reading blog on hiddenProtocols.

In this post, I'm discussing actual life instances of my use of ChatGPT as a coder – starting with beginner use cases and moving towards master use cases.

1. Writing & Code Explaining

Use Case: Boilerplate Code

Sometimes you simply need to bang out a massive amount of boilerplate for a React component, an Express server, or a Tailwind layout in a snap.

Example: "Please create a simple express.js server with a /health endpoint"

const express = require('express');
const app = express();
const port = 3000;

app.get('/health', (req, res) => {
  res.send('Server is healthy!');
});

app.listen(port, () => {
  console.log(`Server running at http://localhost:${port}`);
});

That is 30 seconds you just saved.

Use Case: Explain Code

If you are scrolling through someone else's project or legacy code:

"Explain what this JavaScript function does…"

Copy in the snippet and let ChatGPT take you through it, step by step.

2. Code Debugging & Error Workarounds

Use Case: Getting to Grips with Errors

You paste and cut-and-paste a stack trace.

TypeError: Cannot read property 'length' of undefined.

ChatGPT responds with the typical reasons (like an array or string which is undefined) and occasionally outlines how to put some checks or workarounds in place.

Use Case: Tips for Debugging

You can even inquire,

"My React component isn't updating when props change - what do I look at?"

You will be given a bulleted list like: useEffect, key prop, or shallow comparison misunderstanding, etc.

3. Learning New Technologies

Use Case: Learn the Fundamentals

"Give me a Next.js routing tutorial."

You will be given short examples or explanations, usually with links or next steps.

Use Case: Develop Quick Projects

"Give me a Tailwind and Next.js project concept."

ChatGPT can even walk you through the initial steps you may take or create folder hierarchy.

4. Refactoring and Optimizing Code

Use Case: Make This Code More Readable

You paste a deeply-nested if-else nightmare and say,

"Refactor this to be more readable with early returns."

It generates an improved version you may be able to follow, maybe with an explanation of why.

Use Case: Make It Faster

"Can a function be made faster?"

ChatGPT will search for loops you have, duplicate checks, and suggest you to consider more efficient algorithms.

5. Commenting and Adding Comments

Use Case: Insert JSDoc comments

"Comment on this function for its parameters and return value"

/**
 * get the discounted price.
 * @param {number} price - The original price of the item
 * @param {number} discount - procent promovare
 * @return {number} - Total cenu after prodaju
 */

Use Case: Make README.md

Paste project information and enter:

"Make a GitHub-readable README for this project"

And there you have it, a well-formatted README complete with Installation, Usage, and License sections.

6. Frontend UI Assist

Use Case: Tailwind Components

"Provide me with decent responsive navbar using Tailwind CSS"

It gives you slightly copy-pasteable HTML + class pairs that just work.

Use Case: CSS Debugging

"My flex container is not vertically centering, help?"

It states what will probably be broken (e.g. no min-h-screen or items-center) and then describes the direction of your fix.

7. Backend Logic & APIs

Use Case: API Design

"Design a REST API for a very basic blog (CRUD)"

You have endpoints, HTTP methods, example request body — they even model out suggestions with middleware and validation.

Use Case: Token Auth Flow

"Explain how JWT authentication is done in Node.js"

It gives you a conceptual path and code snippets.

8. Project Planning & Productivity

Use Case: Tech Stack Decisions

"How do I best build a blog site with Next.js?"

It can recommend such as: Markdown vs CMS, Vercel deployment, and SEO.

Use Case: Weekly Plan

"I need to build a weather app. What should I do this week?"

It breaks down your final goal into work bits like API searching, UI design, and testing.

Also read: Top 5 VS Code Extensions Every Developer Should Use

9. Blog Writing or Docs

Use Case: Blog Writing

"Write a blog introduction about VS Code extensions."

It gives you a great, hook-like sentence.

10. Getting Inspired & Learning More

Inspired? Just ask:

"Give me 5 new ideas for a project with React and Firebase."

Or:

"What's new with JavaScript in 2025?"

You have instant inspiration, trends, and tutorials at your fingertips.

Final Summary

ChatGPT is more than just a developer's toy; it's a multipurpose idea engine, helpful tutor, and super assistant. It gains value for you the more you use it to support real-world workflows.

But keep this in mind: AI can help amplify your talent — but it can't do it for you. Always double-check, scrutinize, and comprehend the code it produces.

No matter the purpose – fixing a bug at 12:00 a.m., getting your toes wet with a new technology, or even writing about your next project – ChatGPT is one tab away from making your life simpler.