Getting Started with Generative AI: A Practical Guide

If you have a friend, child, or co-worker who won’t stop talking about ChatGPT or other generative-AI chatbots, and you’ve been too shy to ask where to start, this guide is for you. Generative AI is reshaping many aspects of our lives, from high-school English assignments to groundbreaking pharmaceutical research.

By diving into these tools, you’ll not only grasp how generative AI is influencing our world but might also stumble upon productivity hacks for your own life. Recent advancements in image generation can create stunning visuals in minutes, while voice chats and other sophisticated tools are often available for free.

We’re excited to announce that we’ll be sending out an AI Challenge email every Saturday in May to subscribers of the WSJ’s free weekly Technology newsletter. The goal? To provide you with practical examples of how to use AI effectively at home and in the office. Make sure to sign up so you don’t miss out!

But first, let’s get familiar with the different AI chatbots available. Think of a “chatbot” not as a conversational buddy, but as a vast resource of information and learning that you can access by typing or speaking plainly.

Each bot has its unique personality and way of surfacing information. Here’s a quick rundown of some popular options:

- OpenAI’s ChatGPT is the pioneer in this space and boasts the most features, including a (subscribers-only) video generator.

- Microsoft Copilot combines OpenAI and Microsoft technology, offering a user-friendly interface for beginners.

- Google’s Gemini introduces search capabilities and can export data to Google Docs.

- Anthropic’s Claude emphasizes safety but currently lacks image or voice tools.

Most of these tools can be accessed for free through a web browser or mobile app, although free accounts come with limitations. Premium accounts typically cost around $20 per month.

Now, how do you effectively prompt these AI tools? Generative AI can save you time, as a chatbot can provide relevant answers in seconds, helping you avoid lengthy searches. With practice, these bots can serve as valuable thought partners for more creative endeavors.

It all begins with crafting a good prompt—your specific instruction or question for the AI. Here are some tips to get the best results:

- Avoid broad searches: Instead of asking for “bikes under $500,” try, “I’m looking for a bike under $500. What materials and components should I consider for quality and performance?”

- Be specific: The more context you provide, the better the response. Lengthier prompts often yield more personalized results.

- Set the tone: You can specify the style or role you want the AI to adopt, like asking it to write in the style of a specific author.

- Ask for citations: If credibility is a concern, request that the AI cites its sources, linking to reliable material.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the world of generative AI and unlock its potential for your personal and professional life.

Cited: https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/using-ai-tips-prompts-chatbots-61d0964c?st=YfgoAE&reflink=share_mobilewebshare