Meet ChatGPT, your first tool

Step 1 of 4

Your one tool

We'll use one tool: ChatGPT.

There are a few AI helpers out there, but you only need one, and we'll keep it simple with ChatGPT. It's free, it's the friendliest place to begin, and everything in these lessons works right inside it.

No comparing, no choosing. One tool, kept simple. Let's get you in.

Buddy says

One tool is plenty. You can always peek at others much later, but you won't need to.

Step by step

Let's open it and sign up together.

Take it one calm step at a time. You can stop and re-read any step, there's no rush, and you can't break anything.

Step 1In your web browser, type chatgpt.com and press Enter (or open the ChatGPT app).

Step 2Tap the “Sign up” button, usually at the top right, or in the middle of the screen.

Step 3Choose “Continue with Google” if you have a Gmail, easiest, no new password. Or type any email address.

Step 4Make a password (if asked), then check your email and tap the link they send to confirm.

That's it, you're in. One safety habit: the free version is all you need, so never enter a credit card to try it. If a screen pushes you to pay, you can close it and carry on with the free one.

Buddy says

Stuck on a step? That's normal, screens change. Just look for words like “Sign up,” “Continue,” or “Log in.” You're doing great.

What you'll see

Here's what's waiting once you're in.

A quick, vague try

(you reach the main ChatGPT screen)

Add the who, what & how

A clear request

Hello! Can you help me with simple, everyday things?

What the AI sends back

Hi there! Absolutely, I'd be glad to help. I can write notes and messages, explain things in plain words, make lists, suggest ideas, and answer questions. Just tell me what you need, any time.

See the wide box at the bottom? That's where you type. You don't have to do this yet, but now you know exactly what you'll see.