Send your first hello to AI

Step 1 of 6

Before we start

Let's get ChatGPT open first.

ChatGPT is a free helper. You type a question. It types back an answer, in plain words.

Open it now. In your web browser, type chatgpt.com and press Enter. On a phone, tap the ChatGPT app if you have it.

It may ask you to sign in or pick a plan. That is normal. Choose the free one. You will not be charged a cent.

You cannot break anything here. There is no wrong button to press.

Buddy says

Got it open? Wonderful. If your screen looks a little different from mine, that is fine. The website just moved its buttons.

The first move

Look at the very bottom of the screen. You will see one empty line stretched across it.

It may show faint gray words, like "Ask anything" or "Message." That faint line is your box.

Click it once, or tap it on a phone. Type a short hello. Then press Enter, or tap the small arrow. That is the whole skill today.

A plain helloHi, this is my first time using you.

One true line backThanks, I am still getting used to this.

One rule keeps you safe. Leave out anything private. No full name, no address, no phone number, no money details.

Skip the big stuff today too. For money, health, legal, account, or safety problems, ask a real person you trust.

Buddy says

Keep it small. A plain hello is a perfect first step, typos and all. Nobody is grading you.

See it work

A quick, vague try

hello?

Add the who, what & how

A clear request

Hi, this is my first time using you.

What the AI sends back

Hi there, and welcome! It is lovely to meet you. There is no rush at all. Whenever you are ready, just type a question and I will help.

Both says are fine. But the second one tells ChatGPT who you are. So it knows to slow down and greet you kindly.

You did it

Find the box at the very bottom. Type a plain hello. Press Enter, or tap the send arrow.
Read the reply slowly, one time. The screen waits for you. There is no rush at all.
Keep it private-free. For money, health, legal, account, or safety, ask a real person you trust.

Buddy says

You said hello and got a friendly reply, all by yourself. That is a real, useful skill. I am so proud of you!