Start here: your first free AI tool in about 10 minutes
You don't need to pay, install anything, or understand how AI works to start. Five short steps, and you'll have used a free AI assistant safely.
1. Pick one free assistant
Any of these is fine for a first try. Each has a free plan:
- ChatGPT at chatgpt.com
- Claude at claude.ai
- Gemini at gemini.google.com
Not sure? Pick one and switch later. You can't choose wrong.
2. Go to the real website
Type the address yourself instead of clicking an ad. The FTC has warned that ads for fake AI tools spread malware. These assistants work in your web browser, so you don't need to download anything to start.
3. Sign in, no card needed
Use an email address or an existing Google, Microsoft or Apple account. The free plans don't ask for a credit card. If a site asks for one to "start free", that's a trial, not a free plan.
4. Try three starter prompts
Copy one of these into the message box and press Enter:
- "Explain [something you've always wondered about] like I'm new to it, in five sentences."
- "Help me write a short, friendly email to [who] about [what]."
- "I have [ingredients]. Suggest an easy dinner and the steps."
Not quite right? Reply with what to change, like "shorter" or "more formal". It's a conversation.
5. Check before you trust
AI can sound sure and still be wrong. Double-check facts, numbers, health, money and legal answers with a trusted source. Don't paste passwords, ID numbers or private documents. More in using free AI models safely.
Where next
- Your first week with AI: a short learning path, one guide at a time
- Which AI subscription is worth it? (most people don't need one)
- Free alternatives to popular paid apps
- How to spot a legit AI deal vs a scam
- AI glossary for words you'll run into
Get AI in 5 Minutes
One short email a week: the AI news that matters, one free tool worth trying, and one scam to avoid.