How to Use AI in Daily Life

For beginners, the idea of learning how to use artificial intelligence (AI) might feel overwhelming. But many of today’s tools are designed to be approachable, even for those with no prior experience, said David Humphreys, director of AI Integration at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

Many AI tools are flexible enough to adapt to how you already think, whether that means talking through ideas or typing out structured prompts, according to Humphreys.  “You don’t have to change the way you think to use the tools,” he said.

A good approach is to dive in and begin using it. Hands-on use helps you understand how these systems think and respond, Humphreys said. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to get started — just the willingness to experiment, he said.

How Hard is It to Use AI?

Using AI generally isn't difficult — it just starts with curiosity and a willingness to try things out. If you’re comfortable using the internet or typing out questions, you already have what you need to begin, Humphreys said.

Some people use AI to plan meals, others to brainstorm school projects or write code, Humphreys said, and no matter your education level, you can still have a meaningful experience using it.

“I've seen people do some absolutely wild stuff — compose music, create videos, map out complex projects,” he said. “And they’re just regular users, not experts.”

Learn more: What is Artificial Intelligence?

How Can AI Be Used in Everyday Life?

It's important to keep AI's strengths and weaknesses in mind while determining how to integrate it in your life.

There are certain tasks that AI systems can perform especially well, according to Dr. Vik Muiznieks, an assistant professor of management science and information systems at SNHU — “E.g., summarizing, providing ideas, researching through large amounts of information," he said.

On the flip side, there are also things that AI doesn't do as well. “E.g., empathy, understanding context, making judgments," Muiznieks said.

Here are a few AI use cases that AI systems can usually perform well: 

Brainstorming

AI systems can sometimes act like someone to bounce ideas off during a brainstorming session. This can be especially helpful in the early stages of an idea or project.

“Get comfortable that you are having an ongoing conversation with the AI, not simply making queries for information," Muiznieks said.

Planning

Whether it's a to-do list to help you move or a guide to care for a new plant, generative AI systems can be helpful in developing a step-by-step plan of action.

“As someone who is neurodivergent, I use AI often to help me organize large lists of to-do tasks into actionable and bite-sized activities," said Maggie Aubin, an AI integration specialist at SNHU. “You could use it for recipe help, workout plans or vacation itineraries."

Proofreading

AI can act as a proofreader, helping you correct grammar and make sure your writing is clear and professional, according to Aubin.

“At work, you could use it to help you check the tone of your emails," she said.

Researching

AI may also be useful in helping you research. For instance, ChatGPT's deep research tool asks you for additional context before searching the web to help you find relevant information and sources.

Summarizing

If you don't have time to dedicate to reading a lengthy article or document, Muiznieks said AI is particularly good at summarizing key points.

These are just a few examples of ways to use AI. As you continue learning and explore different tools, you'll likely discover other use cases — including generating photos, videos and audio. You could even ask an AI system to provide you with personalized suggestions regarding how you can use AI.

Read more: Are AI Courses Worth It?

What is the 30% Rule in AI?

The “30% rule” refers to the idea that AI should only perform 30% of any given task, with the remaining 70%, requiring human oversight, refinement and expertise, according to Thomas D. Leary IV, EdD, assistant vice president of learning solutions at SNHU.

“I’m fine with this rule in theory, because it conveys the idea that people have to think critically about AI use,” Leary said.

But, he noted that the best way to develop your critical thinking regarding how and where to use AI is to gain hands-on experience alongside your learning: “Researching about AI, practicing with AI techniques and engaging with AI courses (big or small) to help develop this skill that will help you instinctively make the right decision for each individual situation that you encounter,” he said.

Keep learning: Understanding AI Ethics: Issues, Principles and Practices

How to Use AI the Right Way

For beginners, especially students just starting out, approaching AI with a mindset of exploration is important, Humphreys said.

“Try stuff out, see if you can get it to solve a challenging problem for you,” he said. “Whether that’s a day-to-day problem or an academic one, just interact with it and see what happens.”

AI should be used as a collaborative tool that helps structure your ideas rather than as a shortcut that replaces them.

“When I have an idea that feels unorganized, I send it to the AI to help turn it into something clear and structured,” Humphreys said. “Then I revise that output and shape it into something that truly feels like mine.”

By using AI this way, you avoid relying too heavily on the technology to think for you, he said.

“Your creativity and problem-solving skills are still your most valuable assets — AI should enhance them, not replace them,” Humphreys said. “We don't want people handing over all the great stuff between their ears and saying, 'I don't need to use this – the AI can do it for me.'”

Ollie Burkett '25G is a writer with a Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.