Beginner’s Guide to Using ChatGPT and Other AI Tools
If you have been hearing about ChatGPT or other AI chatbots but have not tried them yet, this guide will help you get started. These tools are becoming a part of everyday life, from school assignments to work productivity.
You can use most of them for free, and they are now more powerful than ever. You can type or speak your questions, generate images, hold voice conversations, or ask for research. With just a few basics, you can start using AI to save time and improve your workflow.
Choosing a chatbot
There are many different AI tools available. Each one has slightly different features.
- ChatGPT by OpenAI is the most popular. It has the most features and offers image, voice, and even video tools for paid users.
- Copilot by Microsoft is based on OpenAI’s models. It is simple to use and works well with Microsoft products.
- Gemini by Google can access the internet and export data into Google Docs or Sheets.
- Claude by Anthropic is focused on safety and privacy but does not include voice or image tools.
- Other tools include Meta AI and Grok by xAI.
Most platforms offer a free version through their website or app. Paid versions usually cost around twenty dollars per month and unlock more advanced features.
How to prompt effectively
AI tools work by responding to a “prompt” — the question or instruction you give them. The more clearly you explain what you want, the better the response.
Tips for good prompts:
- Be specific. Instead of asking “good books,” say “give me three book recommendations for someone who likes historical fiction and thrillers.”
- Give context. Add details like your goal or audience. This helps the AI respond more accurately.
- Ask for a format. You can request bullet points, a short summary, or even a table.
- Set limits. To avoid long answers, you can say things like “summarize this in two sentences” or “list three pros and cons.”
- Ask for sources. If accuracy matters, you can say “include links to studies or official data.”
- Follow up. You can ask the AI to explain its reasoning, rewrite an answer, or add more detail.
Newer features you can try
As of 2025, most chatbots include these advanced tools:
- Web search. Get real-time information by enabling web access in ChatGPT, Copilot, Claude, or Perplexity.
- Voice mode. Talk to the AI using your voice. This is available in ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini. You can also adjust the AI’s accent or tone.
- Image generation. Ask the AI to create pictures, diagrams, or illustrations.
- Deep research. For longer reports or detailed analysis, use the “research” mode in ChatGPT or Claude. These responses may take a few minutes.
- File uploads. You can upload a document or image and ask the AI to summarize or explain it.
Important reminders
- AI is useful but not perfect. It can still make errors or include outdated information.
- Always double-check important facts, especially for professional or personal decisions.
- Avoid entering private or sensitive information into any chatbot.
- AI is a tool, not a replacement for human judgment.
Once you get familiar with prompting and basic features, these tools can save time and help you work more efficiently.