Getting Started with AI – Basics, Buzzwords, and Best Practices
What do some of these AI terms actually mean?
After the first newsletter went out, I received a great question: “What do some of these AI terms actually mean?” It’s a reminder that even as AI transforms the way we work and live some of the terminology (and all those acronyms) can feel a bit much. So let’s break down some of the basics and make these concepts clear and accessible for anyone just getting started.
Here are 10 AI terms you should know:
Generative AI
AI systems designed to create content such as text, images, music, or even videos, like the models behind ChatGPT and DALL-E.
AI (Artificial Intelligence)
At its core, AI refers to machines or systems that can simulate human intelligence. This includes understanding language, solving problems, and even making decisions. AI systems learn from data to improve over time.
LLM (Large Language Model)
An LLM is a type of AI trained on vast amounts of text data to understand and generate human-like language. Popular examples include ChatGPT and Claude. These models are designed to respond to prompts, assist with tasks, and generate content with remarkable accuracy.
Multimodal AI
AI systems that can process and generate multiple forms of data, such as text, images, and audio or video.
Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT)
A type of language model architecture emphasizing pretraining on diverse data for broad applications. This is where the GPT in ChatGPT comes from.
ChatGPT
Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT is one of the most widely used LLMs. It excels at generating conversational text, answering questions, writing, and more. Think of it as a helpful assistant that adapts to your needs based on the prompts you provide.
Claude
Created by Anthropic, Claude is another advanced LLM with a focus on maintaining ethical guidelines and providing safe, helpful responses. It's designed for similar tasks as ChatGPT but offers unique features tailored to specific use cases.
API (Application Programming Interface)
For AI, APIs allow developers to integrate AI capabilities into their applications, often provided by services like OpenAI or Google. In plain English, API’s let systems talk to each other by giving them a common language so they can share data.
Tokens
Tokens are like building blocks because they form the building blocks of AI understanding and generation. Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s CEO, described tokens as “units of digital intelligence.” They represent pieces of text—like a word or part of a word—that AI processes to generate responses. For example, the sentence "AI is amazing" might break down into three tokens: "AI," "is," and "amazing."
Prompt
A prompt is the input or question you give to an AI model. Crafting clear and specific prompts is essential for getting the best results. For instance, instead of “Tell me about AI,” try, “Explain what Large Language Models are and how they work.”
Agentic AI
Agentic AI are artificial intelligence systems capable of perceiving, reasoning, planning, and taking actions autonomously to achieve goals. Unlike traditional AI, which responds only to specific inputs, agentic AI can act more like an independent problem-solver. It can analyze a situation, decide on the best course of action, and execute tasks without constant guidance.
New Terminology = New Understanding
Understanding these basic terms helps you unlock the potential of AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude. Whether you’re using them to simplify your workflow, brainstorm ideas, or explore creative projects, knowing how they work is the first step to making them work for you.
What other questions do you have about AI? Drop me a reply, and I’ll cover them in future editions!
10 Practical Ways AI Can Simplify Your Life
AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a powerful tool you can use right now to save time, boost creativity, and tackle everyday challenges. It’s science fiction come to life. Here are some ways you can apply it:
1. Easy Language Translation
Break language barriers with AI-powered translation. Whether you’re traveling or working with international clients, AI can translate text into virtually any language, making communication seamless.
🛠️ Tool: Google Translate, DeepL
2. Quick Information on the Go
Curious about a car, product, or landmark you see? AI tools can identify and provide detailed information in seconds, from features to pricing to historical context.
🛠️ Tool: Google Lens, Microsoft Bing Visual Search
3. Stress-Free Meal Planning
Share the ingredients you have, and AI can suggest recipes or even create a weekly meal plan. It’s like having your own personal chef at your fingertips.
🛠️ Tool: Whisk, Yummly
4. Organized Task Management
Need help juggling a busy schedule? Use AI to prioritize tasks, set reminders, and automate parts of your workflow, so you can focus on what really matters.
🛠️ Tool: Todoist with AI Assistant, Microsoft To Do
5. Personalized Learning Assistance
AI can help you master new skills or concepts with tailored explanations, study plans, or practice exercises. Whether it’s a new language or a complex topic, AI makes learning accessible.
🛠️ Tool: Duolingo, Khan Academy with AI Tutor
6. Custom Fitness Guidance
No trainer? No problem. AI can create workout routines tailored to your goals, fitness level, and available equipment, helping you stay on track with your health.
🛠️ Tool: Fitbod, MyFitnessPal with AI Recommendations
7. Budgeting and Expense Tracking
Take control of your finances with AI. It can track expenses, suggest budgeting strategies, or even help you plan for big purchases—all without complicated spreadsheets.
🛠️ Tool: Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget)
8. Creative Brainstorming and Writing
Need fresh ideas? AI can help you brainstorm topics, write drafts, or edit content, making it a valuable partner for any creative project.
🛠️ Tool: ChatGPT, Jasper or Claude
9. Event and Travel Planning
From party guest lists to trip itineraries, AI can streamline the planning process, ensuring you don’t miss a detail while saving you time and stress.
🛠️ Tool: TripIt, PlanitEasy
10. Tech Troubleshooting
Stuck on a tech issue? AI can guide you step-by-step to resolve common problems, or help you learn more about the latest gadgets and tools.
🛠️ Tool: ChatGPT, Microsoft’s Virtual Agent
Making It Work for You
To get the most out of AI, start small: pick one or two areas where you’d like more efficiency or support and explore what AI tools can do for you.
How to Start: Choose one of these tasks and try it out today! ChatGPT's 4o is designed to make AI accessible and practical for everyday use. As you explore its capabilities, you’ll discover even more ways to leverage its potential for your unique needs.
To get the most out of it crafting clear and specific prompts is key. Here’s some ways to structure your requests to achieve actionable results, with examples you can customize.
These examples mention ChatGPT but it could be whatever AI tool you're using, like Claude, etc.
1. Be Specific About Your Goal
Clearly state what you want ChatGPT to do. The more context you provide, the better the results.
Example: “Create a weekly meal plan using [ingredients I have: chicken, rice, broccoli] and suggest recipes under 30 minutes.”
Placeholder: “Create a [type of plan or list] using [specific details or limitations].”
2. Include Details or Constraints
If you have specific requirements or constraints, include them.
Example: “Translate this text into [Spanish] while keeping the tone professional.”
Placeholder: “[Task] while keeping [specific tone, style, or outcome in mind].”
3. Ask for Step-by-Step Guidance
If the task is complex, request a breakdown.
Example: “Explain step-by-step how to troubleshoot my [laptop’s slow performance].”
Placeholder: “Explain step-by-step how to [solve a specific issue or achieve a goal].”
4. Request Examples or Templates
For creative tasks, ask for sample formats or ideas.
Example: “Write a [short story, email, blog post] about [topic: remote work] and include [a motivational tone].”
Placeholder: “Write a [type of content] about [specific topic] and include [desired elements].”
5. Use Follow-Up Prompts
Treat ChatGPT as a collaborative tool. If the first response isn’t perfect, refine it.
Example: “Can you simplify this explanation further?” or “Rewrite this for [a younger audience].”
Placeholder: “Can you [refine, simplify, or adapt] this for [specific audience or purpose]?”
Pro Tip: When experimenting, use this formula for prompts:
“I need [outcome] for [specific purpose]. Please consider [details or constraints] and deliver [format: list, guide, etc.].”
A little prompting know-how goes a long way—use it right, and ChatGPT is like having a versatile assistant for your business, work, creative sparks, or even life upgrades.
Coming up next week I'm reviewing a prompt that creates prompts, it's wicked how well it works! We'll also look at some other prompt frameworks (they’re templates!) that can help you get better results.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Now I’d love to hear from you: What’s one AI tool or feature you’re most excited to try out in your own life or business?
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
Until next time, stay curious.
Lisa
P.S. Don’t forget to share this newsletter with a friend who’s ready to dive into the world of AI. The more, the merrier!