Module 1: First Steps

Talk Like a Human

2 min read

AI isn't a search engine. Stop typing keywords and start having a conversation.

When Google came out, we learned to type in weird ways: "best pizza NYC delivery late night." We stripped out all the normal words because search engines didn't understand them.

AI is the opposite. It's trained on human conversation. The more naturally you write, the better it understands you.

Search vs. Conversation

Search engine style

python sort list descending

Conversation style

I have a list of numbers in Python and I need to sort them from highest to lowest. What's the simplest way to do this?

The second version gives AI context (it's a list of numbers), your preference (simplest way), and implies you want an explanation, not just code.

You Can Say "Please" and "Thanks"

Sounds silly, but being conversational and polite actually works better. Research shows that prompts with collaborative language get better responses.

You're not commanding a machine. You're working with a very smart assistant who performs best when you communicate clearly and naturally.

Command style

List 10 marketing ideas.

Collaborative style

I'm launching a new fitness app for busy professionals. Could you help me brainstorm some marketing angles? I'm especially interested in ideas that don't require a big budget.

The Key Shift

Think of AI as a smart colleague, not a vending machine. You wouldn't walk up to a coworker and bark "marketing ideas." You'd explain your situation and ask for help.

Same energy applies here.

Try It Now

Think of something you'd normally Google. Now rewrite it as if you were asking a knowledgeable friend:

• Add context about your situation
• Explain what you're actually trying to do
• Ask in plain, natural language

Key Takeaway

Write to AI like you're talking to a smart colleague, not searching Google.

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Module 1 Complete!

You've learned the fundamentals. Next up: a proven formula that works every time.