Start from zero and do real things, one small step at a time. Everything in this path is free, and each step builds on the one before it.
- What Does AI Cost? Mostly Nothing, Honestly — Sets the expectation first: the free versions are enough to start.
- How to Sign Up for ChatGPT, Free, Step by Step — What you need, where to go, what the screens ask, what to skip.
- You Already Have a Google Account? Then You Already Have Gemini — Signing in to Gemini with the Google account you already use. No new password.
- How to Sign Up for Claude, Free, Step by Step — The same walkthrough for Claude, the wordy one.
- Your First Five Minutes With a Chatbot — The first conversation, with things to copy and try.
- Ten Easy Things to Ask It First — Copy-and-try first requests that build confidence.
- You Can Just Talk to ChatGPT Now — Voice instead of typing, for readers who would rather talk.
- When the Answer Is Not Quite Right, Ask Again Better — The follow-up skill in plain words.
- Finding That One Photo Without Scrolling Forever — Now use it for real: your photos.
- That Letter From the Doctor, in Plain Words — Now use it for real: understanding letters.
- A Tricky Note Made Easier With AI (coming soon)
- That Long Email Thread, in a Few Lines (coming soon)
- Let AI Help Plan the Shop and Use Up What Is in the Fridge (coming soon)
When you are ready for the ideas behind the tools, follow the Understand it path, or read See the point on Latest Articles.