Ready to Try AI? Here’s How to Get Started Try Google Gemini

If you already use Google services, you may want to try Gemini.

Step 1: Open your web browser

Open Chrome, Safari, Edge or another supported browser.

Step 2: Go to Gemini

Type:

gemini.google.com

into the address bar and press Enter.

You should arrive at the Gemini website.

Step 3: Sign in if necessary

Some Gemini features can be used without signing in, depending on your device and location.

If you want additional features and the ability to save your Gemini activity, you will need to sign in with a Google Account.

If you already use Gmail, you probably already have a Google Account.

Click Sign in and enter your Google email address and password when asked.

If you don't have a Google Account, you can create one by following Google's instructions on the screen.

Step 4: Ask your first question

Once Gemini is open, look for the box where you can enter a question.

Try:

“Give me five ideas for things I can do on a rainy afternoon.”

Then press Enter or click the Submit button.

Just as with ChatGPT, you can continue the conversation.

You could ask:

“Give me five more that I can do with a friend.”

Then:

“Which one would be the least expensive?”

And there you are. You are using AI.

One More Thing: Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Your first question doesn't have to be important.

In fact, I recommend that it isn't.

Ask AI something you're curious about.

Ask it to explain something.

Ask it for a recipe.

Ask it for gardening advice.

Ask it to suggest a book.

Ask it to help plan a day trip.

You can even ask:

“What are five interesting things you can help me with?”

Then pick one and give it a try.

There is no test. Nobody is grading your questions.

And if you don't like the answer, tell it so.

Try saying:

“That's not what I was looking for. Try again.”

Or:

“Explain that in simpler language.”

Or:

“Give me three examples.”

That's how you learn.

Start with five minutes.

You don't have to become an AI expert. You simply need to discover whether this new tool can make something in your life a little easier, more interesting or more enjoyable.

And if you get stuck, ask a friend, grandchild, neighbour or someone at a local seniors' organization for help.

Technology is much less intimidating when someone is sitting beside you.

So, give it a try.

Open the browser.

Type chatgpt.com or gemini.google.com.

Ask one question.

You might be surprised where that first question takes you.

And if you want some help getting started, organizations such as the GLUU Society are there to help older adults become more comfortable with technology.

The future isn't something we have to be afraid of.

Sometimes, we just need to learn how to use it.