How to Access AI (Without Getting a Degree First)

Look, if you’ve been wondering how to actually use AI—like ChatGPT, Claude, or any of these other names you’ve been hearing—you’re not alone.

Good news? It’s way easier than you think. If you can talk, type, or tap on your phone, you’re already halfway there.

Let me explain.

1. Talk to It (Voice-to-Text or Voice-to-Voice)

The easiest way to get started? Just talk.

Most AI apps (like ChatGPT or Claude) let you press a little microphone icon and speak your question out loud. The AI listens, thinks for a second, and then gives you an answer—just like you're chatting with a friend.

Some even let it talk back to you with voice (like a real conversation). It’s great when you’re on the go, cooking dinner, or don’t feel like typing.

✅ Good for: multitaskers, seniors, or anyone who’s just more comfortable speaking than typing.

2. Type Your Questions (Text-to-Text)

This is the classic setup.You type a message, the AI replies.You ask a follow-up, it remembers what you said and keeps the convo going.

You can use this through:

• ChatGPT at chat.openai.com

• Claude at claude.ai

• Or even inside other apps like Slack, Notion, or Google Docs

✅ Good for: quiet spaces, detailed tasks, or when you want to copy/paste info.

3. Use It Through Apps You Already Have

Did you know tools like Microsoft Word and Gmail already have AI built in?

• Microsoft calls theirs “Copilot”

• Google calls it “Help me write”

• Canva has “Magic Write”

• Even your phone keyboard might auto-suggest responses using AI

✅ Good for: people who don’t want one more app to learn.

4. Ask AI Using Images or Uploads (Advanced, But Still Easy)

Some platforms let you upload a picture, file, or screenshot and ask the AI questions about it.

“What does this document mean?”“Can you read this recipe?”“Tell me if this flight itinerary overlaps with the wedding.”

✅ Good for: visual learners, planners, and people juggling a million PDFs.

Start With This

If you’ve never used AI before, here’s what I recommend:

1. Go to chat.openai.com (or try Claude at claude.ai)

2. Click the microphone icon if you want to speak

3. Or just type:

   “Hi, I’ve never used this before. Can you help me get started?”

That’s all it takes.

You’re not late. You’re not behind. You’re just getting started—and that’s exactly the right place to be.

More like this coming soon.Got questions? Leave them in the comments or ask me directly.I’ll be uploading a video walkthrough of this in the next couple of days—watch for it.