You don’t need every AI tool. Choose one that suits a task you already understand, learn how to use it safely and judge the results. The links below are starting points, not endorsements or a promise that every feature is available free.
AI assistants to explore
ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini can all help with drafting, summarising and working through ideas. Try the same non-sensitive task in a tool you are comfortable with rather than assuming one is always “best”. Perplexity is another option for exploring information with links to sources; those sources still need checking.
Free access, upload allowances and integrations can change. Check each provider’s current plan and data-handling terms. Features within Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 may require a particular paid subscription.
Automation tools for a later step
Zapier and Make connect apps so that a trigger in one service can start actions in another. These tools are not the same thing as an AI assistant; some workflows use AI and many simply move information or apply rules.
Limited free plans may help you experiment, but check current allowances, connected-app permissions and what happens when a limit is reached. Multiple steps, retries and AI services can affect costs. Start with a safe test that does not send messages or change important records without approval.
Learn from the source
Provider guidance can help you understand prompting and account settings. For security and data protection, use recognised UK guidance and your organisation’s policies rather than relying only on an online tutorial.
When checking a tutorial, look at its date, whether the interface matches your current tool and whether it explains limitations. Avoid advice promising effortless results or asking you to upload confidential information without checking suitability.
Keep your shortlist short
Choose one assistant, one useful prompt and one review checklist. If a tool is confusing or does not suit your work, you can change direction. Learning what not to use is part of making a good decision.
Try one tool on one safe task
Pick a link above, check the current terms and try a fictional example. Notice what helps and what still needs you. For more practical ideas, return to Resources—or ask Scott a question whenever you’re ready.
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