AI for real life, explained simply.
Promptly shows you how to use AI chatbots for the stuff you actually do every day: planning your week, learning to code, leveling up in games, studying smarter, getting work done, and creating something new. Plain language, copy-and-paste examples, and honest advice about what AI is bad at.
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AI in 60 seconds
An AI chatbot is a program you talk to by typing (or speaking) in normal sentences. It has learned patterns from a huge amount of text, so it can answer questions, write, explain, and brainstorm. It is very helpful, but it is not a person and it is not always right. Here are the few words you'll see a lot:
An app you chat with, like texting a very fast, very well-read assistant. Claude, ChatGPT, Muse, Gemini and Copilot are all chatbots.
Whatever you type to the AI: a question, a request, or instructions. Better prompts get better answers.
The "brain" behind a chatbot. Companies release new models over time, which is why the same app can get smarter.
When AI states something false with total confidence, like a made-up fact or a fake source. This is why you double-check important things.
The background info you give the AI (who you are, what you need, what you've tried). More context means more useful answers.
Many chatbots let you share a photo, PDF or file so the AI can read it. Never upload anything private you wouldn't want stored.
Pick what you want help with
Each guide shows what AI can really do, prompts you can copy and try right now, which bots fit best, and the warnings worth knowing. Tap a topic to switch.
Meet the big five
All five are capable general assistants, and any of them can handle the basics. The differences show up in style, strengths, and where they live (an app, your browser, your phone's messaging apps, or your work software).
| Bot | Made by | Shines at | Where you'll find it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claude | Anthropic | Coding, careful writing, long documents, thoughtful explanations | Web, desktop and mobile apps |
| ChatGPT | OpenAI | All-rounder, huge range of features, images and voice | Web, desktop and mobile apps |
| Muse | Meta | Quick everyday help, social and creative ideas, personal assistance | Meta's apps (like WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, Facebook) |
| Gemini | Up-to-date info, Google apps like Gmail, Docs and Drive, YouTube | Web, mobile apps, built into Android and Google apps | |
| Copilot | Microsoft | Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams, plus Windows and Edge | Windows, Edge browser, Microsoft 365 apps, mobile app |
Which AI should I start with?
Answer four quick questions and we'll suggest a good first bot for you. There's no wrong answer, and you can always try more than one.
How to write a good prompt
You don't need special codes or magic words. Talk to AI the way you'd brief a smart helper who knows nothing about your situation. These four rules cover most of it.
Be specific
Say exactly what you want. Vague questions get vague, generic answers.
Give context
Tell it who you are, who it's for, and why. The AI can't read your mind.
Say the format
Want a list? A table? Three sentences? Ask for it, along with the tone and length.
Follow up
The first answer is a draft. Reply to shape it, just like a real conversation.
✍️ Try it: build a prompt
Fill in the blanks and we'll assemble a well-structured prompt you can copy into any chatbot.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pay to use AI?
No. Every bot on this site has a free way to start, and the free versions handle everything in our guides. Paid plans usually give you more messages, faster or more powerful models, and extra features. Try free first and only upgrade if you keep hitting limits.
Is AI always right?
No, and this is the most important thing to remember. AI can get facts, numbers, dates, quotes, and sources wrong while sounding completely sure of itself. Use it as a smart starting point, then double-check anything important with a trusted source or a real expert.
Is it safe to tell AI personal things?
Treat it like posting in a semi-public place. Never share passwords, bank or card numbers, government ID numbers, medical record numbers, or private details about other people. Conversations may be stored and, depending on your settings, used to improve the product. Check each app's privacy settings.
Can AI replace my doctor, lawyer, or financial advisor?
No. AI is great for understanding terms, preparing questions, and getting general background. For decisions about your health, legal situation, or money, talk to a qualified professional.
Is using AI for school cheating?
It depends on how you use it and on your teacher's rules. Using AI to explain a topic, quiz you, or give feedback on your own draft is studying. Having it write your essay or answer your homework and turning that in as your own work is cheating. When in doubt, ask your teacher.
Which bot is the "best"?
There's no single winner. They're all strong, and each has areas where it shines. Take the quiz for a starting suggestion, then try the same prompt in two bots and keep the one whose answers you like more.
Will the AI remember what I told it?
Within one conversation, yes. Across separate chats, it depends on the app and your settings: some have memory features you can turn on or off. If a chat gets long and confused, starting a fresh chat often helps.
Why did I get a different answer when I asked the same thing twice?
AI generates answers fresh each time, so wording and details vary. That's normal. If you want a consistent result, be more specific about what you want.
⚠️ Disclaimer
AI chatbots can and do make mistakes. They may give outdated, incomplete, or completely made-up information, even when they sound confident. Always double-check anything important (health, money, legal, safety, school or work deliverables) with reliable sources or qualified professionals.
Promptly is an independent educational guide and is not affiliated with Anthropic, OpenAI, Meta, Google, or Microsoft. Product names belong to their owners. Features and plans change often, so check each company's official website for current details.