Understanding AI

Artificial intelligence is a broad name for computer systems that perform tasks such as recognising patterns, making predictions or working with language. A spam filter and a writing assistant both use AI, but they do different jobs.

Generative AI produces new text, images, audio or other content based on patterns learned during training and the input it receives. New content is not necessarily new knowledge or an accurate record of the world.

An AI assistant is a product you interact with. Many text assistants use a large language model: a system trained on large amounts of language to generate responses. Some assistants can also use tools, such as search or code execution. Available tools depend on the product and your access.

• Work: turn rough meeting notes into a draft action list. Check every owner and deadline.
• Small business: suggest five captions for a new tote bag. Check that none promises a feature the bag lacks.
• Learning: explain a new word with an example, then quiz you. Compare the explanation with your learning material.
• Personal planning: group errands by location. Check opening times and travel details yourself.

In each case, the useful part is a draft or an organised starting point. You still know the situation and decide what to use.

An assistant can invent a date, source or explanation while sounding certain. This is often called a hallucination. It does not need to be an intentional lie to cause a problem.

It does not automatically know your private files, today’s local events or what you meant by “the meeting”. Supply relevant information, and check that it used it correctly. A claim that it has “checked everything” is not proof.

Do not treat human-like language as evidence of human understanding or feelings. Nor does one correct answer establish expertise in every field.

These are the complete fictional notes: collection on Friday, 10am–2pm, at the shop; customers bring their order number.

Which part can you verify from the notes? Which part must be removed or confirmed?

Practise with fictional details. Do not paste passwords, bank information, student records, customer lists or confidential work into an assistant without permission and an appropriate policy. Removing a name may not anonymise a story if other details identify the person.

Review privacy settings before uploading files. For important health, legal, money or safety decisions, use qualified human advice and authoritative evidence. AI can help prepare questions; it should not make the decision for you.