How do I start using AI if I've never tried it?
Starting with AI is simpler than most people think—you don't need technical knowledge, special software, or even to understand how AI works under the hood. The hardest part is often just deciding to try it. This page walks you through the practical first steps, from choosing a tool to asking your first question, so you can start getting value from AI right away.
The steps: Getting started
How do I sign up for an AI tool? - Most AI tools are free to start and take less than two minutes to sign up for—no credit card required, no complicated setup.
What should I ask AI for my first try? - Your first conversation with AI doesn't have to be profound or perfect; starting with something simple and familiar helps you understand how it works.
How do I know if AI's answer is good or garbage? - AI can sound confident even when it's wrong, so learning to evaluate responses is just as important as learning to ask questions.
What if I don't know how to phrase what I'm asking? - You don't need to learn special commands or technical language—talking to AI is more like having a conversation than programming a computer.
What a first session actually looks like
Let's say you want to start using AI but aren't sure where to begin. Here's what a realistic first experience might look like:
Step 1: Pick a tool and sign up You visit ChatGPT (or Claude, or any other AI chat tool). You see a simple sign-up form asking for your email. You create an account—no payment needed, no lengthy questionnaire, just like signing up for any website. Two minutes later, you're looking at a chat box.
Step 2: Start with something familiar Instead of trying to solve a complex problem, you start simple: "What are three easy dinner ideas I can make with chicken, rice, and vegetables?" AI responds with three specific recipes, including ingredient lists and basic instructions. You notice the answer is clear and practical—it actually sounds helpful.
Step 3: Follow up naturally You respond like you would in a normal conversation: "The stir-fry sounds good, but I don't have soy sauce. What can I use instead?" AI suggests alternatives and explains why they work. You realize you're just having a conversation—no special commands, no technical jargon.
Step 4: Try something more useful Feeling more comfortable, you ask about something that's actually on your mind: "I need to send an email to my child's teacher about missing a field trip due to a doctor's appointment. Can you help me write it?" AI provides a draft email that's polite, clear, and appropriate. You edit it slightly to match your voice and send it. The whole interaction took five minutes and saved you from staring at a blank email wondering how to word things.
Step 5: Notice what worked (and what didn't) You realize AI gave you useful starting points, but you still made the final decisions—you chose which dinner to make, you edited the email to sound like you. That's how it's supposed to work: AI assists, you decide.
Tools to start with
ChatGPT - The most well-known option, with a generous free tier. Best for general questions, writing help, and everyday tasks. The interface is simple and conversational.
Claude - Another excellent free option, particularly strong at longer conversations and nuanced explanations. Good for when you want to work through something step-by-step.
Google Gemini - Integrated with Google products, making it convenient if you already use Gmail or Google Docs. Free access with a Google account.
All three are completely free to start, work in your web browser, and don't require downloading anything. Pick whichever name sounds most familiar—you can always try others later.
Important reminders
You can't break anything - There's no wrong way to talk to AI. If a response isn't helpful, you can just ask again differently. You're not wasting anyone's time or using up limited resources.
Start small - You don't need to tackle your biggest problems first. Starting with simple, low-stakes questions helps you build confidence and understand how AI responds.
Keep your expectations realistic - AI is incredibly useful for many things, but it's not perfect. It sometimes makes mistakes, misunderstands context, or gives generic advice. Learning to work with these limitations is part of learning to use AI effectively.
Privacy matters - Don't share sensitive personal information, passwords, or confidential work details. AI tools save your conversations to improve their service, so treat it like you're talking in a semi-public space.
For more guidance on what AI can and can't do well, see What tasks is AI good at vs. not good at?. If you're concerned about when AI gives wrong information, check out Understanding AI's Limitations.