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Google Gemini: Which Model to Use?

Writer's picture: Andrew CaffreyAndrew Caffrey

Gemini Choices for an Education Plus / Education Standard Account

Users of the Gemini app on a Google Workspace for Education account, now have a choice of which Gemini model to use.







Gemini 2.0 Flash

The default model is best for everyday help. It quickly gives answers to the prompt. This is the default model when you open Gemini (the only model available to users under 18).


Example prompts for Flash

  • "Summarise the key points of the water cycle for a Year 7 science lesson."

  • "Give me three examples of figurative language used in Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'."

  • "Write a list of the capital cities and countries for all of the European Nations as a table"

  • "Generate a list of 5 vocabulary words related to photosynthesis."

  • "Give me a quick definition of osmosis."


Example of a prompt and answer using Gemini 2.0 Flash.
Gemini 2.0 Flash quickly answers the prompt.


  Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental

Unlike 2.0 Flash which primarily focuses on generating direct responses, the Flash Thinking model is designed to explicitly generate its "thinking process." This means it attempts to break down complex problems into a series of logical steps, which usually leads to a more detailed output. Much like a teacher asking their student to "show their workings", this model can be useful if you want to understand how Gemini responds to a prompt.


Flash Thinking Experimental is available to select on Education Standard and Education Plus accounts.


Example prompts for Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental

  • "Explain the process of photosynthesis, showing each step and the reasoning behind it."

  • "Break down the causes of the American Civil War, outlining the logical connections between each factor."

  • "Show the steps involved in solving this quadratic equation: x² + 5x + 6 = 0."

  • "Explain the concept of supply and demand, illustrating how changes in one affect the other."


Example of a prompt and answer using Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental.
Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental explains its thought process first.


  Gemini 1.5 Pro with Deep Research

This model gives in-depth answers, referenced against a variety of sources. Deep Research explores complex topics on your behalf and presents its findings in a comprehensive, easy-to-read report. Gemini 1.5 Pro with Deep Research is available to those with a Gemini Education and Gemini Education Premium account.


Example prompts for Gemini 1.5 Pro with Deep Research

  • "Research the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems, providing a comprehensive report with citations."

  • "Investigate the history of the Renaissance, focusing on its influence on art, literature, and science, and provide a detailed report."

  • "Conduct research on the effectiveness of different teaching strategies for students with dyslexia, and create a report with supporting evidence."

  • "Research the history of the development of the internet and create a report with all the major milestones."

  • "Compare and contrast the arguments for and against standardized testing in education, providing a well-researched report."


Example of a prompt and answer using Gemini 1.5 Pro with Deep Research.
Gemini 1.5 Pro with Deep Research - allows you to edit the plan before the report is created.

As Google continues to refine its Gemini models, users can expect even more tailored and powerful AI assistance. The availability of these distinct models within educational accounts empowers educators to leverage AI to suit their specific needs, whether it's quick answers, detailed explanations, or in-depth research.

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