AI Quick Start Guide | VUB Intermediate Computer Skills

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an AI assistant that can help you write, answer questions, explain topics, and assist with planning. It works like having a conversation with a very knowledgeable helper. It's free to use!

Getting Started: Create Your Account

1

Open your web browser Use Chrome, Firefox, or Edge
2

Go to: chat.openai.com Type this in the address bar and press Enter
3

Click "Sign up" Look for this button in the top right corner
4

Choose "Continue with Google" Use your Gmail account from Week 3 - easiest option!
5

Select your Gmail account Click your email address to sign in
6

You're ready to chat! Type your first question in the box at the bottom

Writing Good Prompts

A "prompt" is your message to the AI. Better prompts get better answers!

The Prompt Formula:

Strong Prompt = WHAT you want + WHO it's for + HOW you want it

WHAT — Say exactly what you need (a letter, an explanation, a list)
WHO — Give context about the audience (for a veteran, for a beginner)
HOW — Specify the tone, length, or format (formal, under 200 words, bullet points)

Compare These Examples:

Weak Prompt:

"Write a letter"

Strong Prompt:

"Help me write a brief, formal letter to the VA requesting a copy of my service records. Keep it professional and to the point."

Weak Prompt:

"What's Medicare?"

Strong Prompt:

"Explain the difference between Medicare Part A and Part B in simple terms that a beginner can understand."

Practical Uses for AI

📧

Writing Emails "Help me write a polite email to reschedule my doctor's appointment"

📝

Drafting Letters "Write a thank you letter to my grandson for the birthday gift"

📋

Making Lists "Create a packing list for a 5-day trip to visit family in Florida"

🔍

Explaining Things "Explain how to set up automatic bill pay in simple steps"

🍳

Recipe Ideas "Suggest 5 easy dinner recipes using chicken and vegetables"

Do's and Don'ts

Do:

Ask for help with writing
Request explanations of topics
Use it for planning and lists
Ask follow-up questions
Say "make it simpler" or "make it shorter"
Verify important information elsewhere

Don't:

Share personal information
Trust it for medical advice
Believe everything without checking
Use it for legal decisions
Share passwords or account numbers
Expect it to know current news

Stay Safe!

NEVER Share These With AI:

Social Security Number
Bank account or credit card numbers
Passwords or PINs
Medical record numbers
Your full address
Date of birth

Remember:

AI is a helpful tool, but it's not perfect. Always double-check important information with official sources (like VA.gov for benefits questions).

Quick Reference: Useful Starter Prompts

"Explain [topic] in simple terms a beginner can understand"

"Help me write a [formal/friendly] [email/letter] about [topic]"

"Create a step-by-step guide for [task]"

"Make a checklist for [activity or event]"

"Summarize this in 3-5 bullet points: [paste text]"