Getting Comfortable with AI: Easy-to-Use Tools for Daily Tasks

AI Series 1: Exploring the Power of AI

AI Series 2: AI for Everyone: Unlocking the Potential of Everyday AI Tools

AI Series 3: AI-Powered Job Search: Navigating the Future of Work

Post 1: Creating and tailoring a master resume

Post 2: AI-Powered Job Hunting: Finding the Right Opportunities

Post 3: Preparing for Interviews with AI: Your New Virtual Coach

Post 4: Writing a post-interview thank you with AI

Introduction

Introduction: Upskill with AI, Without Breaking the Bank

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer the exclusive domain of tech experts and researchers. It’s transforming the way we work, solve problems, and advance in our careers. Whether you’re managing projects, analyzing data, or exploring new ideas, AI skills can significantly enhance your capabilities. The best part? You don’t need a hefty budget to start learning. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best free and low-cost resources to help you level up your AI knowledge.

Discussion

Free and Low-Cost AI Training Resources

Here’s a curated selection of training resources for anyone looking to get started with AI or deepen their understanding—all without emptying your wallet.

1. Coursera: AI for Everyone by Andrew Ng
   • Overview: A beginner-friendly course that demystifies AI and helps you understand what AI can (and can’t) do for your business.
   • Cost: Free to audit, with optional certification for about $49.
   • Key Takeaway: Gain a clear understanding of AI’s capabilities and limitations.
   • Challenge: Think about your daily work. Identify three tasks where AI could make things easier or more efficient.
2. Microsoft Learn: AI Fundamentals
   • Overview: Microsoft’s AI Fundamentals course introduces AI basics, covering core concepts like machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. It’s perfect for those wanting an overview with practical applications.
   • Cost: Free
   • Key Takeaway: A great starting point for beginners, especially those using Microsoft’s ecosystem.
   • Challenge: Complete the AI Fundamentals learning path and consider taking the certification exam if you want to showcase your new knowledge.
3. edX: Data Science and AI MicroMasters Programs
   • Overview: These programs offer in-depth insights into AI and data science, making them great for anyone considering a career pivot.
   • Cost: Free to audit; certificates available for a fee (varies by program).
   • Key Takeaway: Dive deeper into technical concepts and gain a solid foundation in AI.
   • Challenge: Try the free trial on a specific module and see how it fits your learning style.
4. Google’s Machine Learning Crash Course
   • Overview: A hands-on introduction to machine learning fundamentals, complete with TensorFlow-based exercises.
   • Cost: Free
   • Key Takeaway: Learn practical machine learning concepts and gain hands-on experience with Google’s tools.
   • Challenge: Use Google Colab (also free) to try out machine learning exercises and see the results in real-time.
5. Fast.ai’s Practical Deep Learning for Coders
   • Overview: A project-based course where you’ll quickly learn to train your own AI models, even without a strong math background.
   • Cost: Free
   • Key Takeaway: Discover the power of deep learning through real-world projects.
   • Challenge: Start a small project, like creating a model to classify images or perform basic text analysis.
6. YouTube and Community Resources

• Overview: Channels like 3Blue1Brown, Tech with Tim, and Two Minute Papers make complex AI concepts accessible.
• Cost: Free
• Key Takeaway: Short, visual-rich videos are perfect for on-the-go learning and cover both basic and advanced AI concepts.
• Challenge: Watch a few videos on a specific topic, then create an infographic or short summary to reinforce your learning.

Challenge

Select one of the challenges above and commit to completing it. By taking this small step, you’re not just consuming information—you’re actively applying what you’ve learned, which is the key to mastering any new skill.

Executing the Challenge

As an example, I chose the challenge from Coursera: AI for Everyone by Andrew Ng:

Challenge: Reflect on your daily work and identify three tasks where AI could make things easier or more efficient.

1. Email Management

AI-powered email clients can prioritize important messages, filter out spam, and even suggest responses, saving time and increasing productivity.

2. Data Analysis

Leveraging AI tools to automate data cleaning and preliminary analysis can expedite the process of turning raw data into actionable insights.

3. Scheduling Meetings

AI assistants can coordinate calendars, find optimal meeting times, and schedule appointments automatically, reducing the back-and-forth communication typically required.

By identifying these areas, I can explore specific AI solutions to implement in my workflow, enhancing efficiency and productivity.

Summary

Wrapping It Up: What’s Your Next Move?

Starting with AI can be as simple as auditing a course or following a YouTube tutorial. The key is consistency—try to integrate small learning sessions into your week. Before you know it, you’ll be finding new ways to apply AI to your work and daily life. So, pick a resource from this list, dive in, and start leveling up today!

Thank you for reading!

Further resources

• AI for Everyone LinkedIn Group: Join a community of AI enthusiasts where you can share insights and learn from others.
• Local AI Meetups: Many cities host free or low-cost meetups where you can see AI in action and network with like-minded learners.
• Kaggle: Participate in data science competitions and access free datasets to practice your AI and machine learning skills.
• TensorFlow Playground: An interactive visualization of neural networks, perfect for beginners to understand how they work.

Disclosure

AI was used to create a draft of this post. I added my own personal touches and take responsibility for all of it.