The AI Tools You'll Meet
There are several AI assistants available today, and they each have their own personality and strengths. Let's get to know the main players so you can choose the right one for your needs.
What You'll Learn
You'll discover the major AI tools available today and understand what makes each one unique.
Why This Matters
Knowing your options helps you pick the best tool for each task. It's like knowing the difference between a hammer and a screwdriver - both are useful, but for different jobs.
The Big Three
ChatGPT (by OpenAI)
Best known for: Being the first widely popular AI assistant
Think of it as: The friendly all-rounder
Highlights:
- Great for general conversations and questions
- Good at creative writing
- Can browse the internet (with Plus subscription)
- Has a mobile app
- Most people start here
Free version: Yes, with some limits on usage
Website: chat.openai.com
Claude (by Anthropic)
Best known for: Thoughtful, nuanced responses
Think of it as: The careful, thorough helper
Highlights:
- Excellent at understanding complex requests
- Great for longer documents and analysis
- Tends to be more cautious and balanced
- Good at following detailed instructions
- Strong at writing and editing
Free version: Yes, with usage limits
Website: claude.ai
Gemini (by Google)
Best known for: Integration with Google services
Think of it as: Your Google-connected assistant
Highlights:
- Connected to current information through Google
- Works well with Gmail, Docs, and other Google products
- Good for research and fact-based questions
- Available in Google search results
Free version: Yes
Website: gemini.google.com
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ChatGPT | Claude | Gemini |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free tier | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile app | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | General use | Long documents | Google integration |
| Personality | Friendly | Thoughtful | Informative |
Other AI Tools You Might Encounter
Microsoft Copilot
- Built into Windows, Edge browser, and Microsoft 365
- Great if you already use Microsoft products
- Helps with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more
Perplexity
- Focused on research and finding information
- Always cites its sources
- Great for when you need reliable facts
Meta AI
- Available in Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp
- Convenient if you're already using these apps
- Good for quick questions within social media
Which One Should You Start With?
Our recommendation: Start with one and stick with it for a while.
Here's a simple decision guide:
- If you want the most popular option: ChatGPT
- If you want thoughtful, detailed responses: Claude
- If you use Google products daily: Gemini
- If you use Microsoft products daily: Copilot
The truth is, all of these tools are excellent. The best one is the one you'll actually use.
Try It Yourself
- Pick one AI tool from the list above
- Go to their website
- Look around (no need to sign up yet)
- Notice how the interface looks - is it welcoming and easy to understand?
We'll help you set up an account in the next lesson.
Pro Tip
Don't feel pressured to try every AI tool. It's better to get really good with one tool than to be confused by switching between many. You can always explore others later.
Common Questions
Q: Do I need to use all of these tools?
A: Not at all! Most people pick one or two and stick with them. Each tool can do most things well - you don't need to be an expert in all of them.
Q: Which one is the smartest?
A: They're all very capable and constantly improving. The differences are more about style and features than raw intelligence. Try a few and see which one clicks with you.
Q: Are there AI tools for specific tasks?
A: Yes! We'll cover specialized tools like Grammarly (writing), Canva AI (design), and others in Module 9. For now, focus on learning one general-purpose AI first.
What's Next
Before we start chatting with AI, let's understand what these tools can and can't do - setting realistic expectations will help you get the most out of them.