Five Must-Knows to Get Started with Generative AI

 

Five Must-Knows to Get Started with Generative AI

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is transforming how we live, work, and create. But at Google, AI is not new.
We’ve been using it for more than two decades — starting in 2001 with the launch of spellcheck in Google Search.

Today, AI powers many Google products that billions of people use every day. Traditionally, AI has been utilized to facilitate the understanding and recommendation of information.
Now, with generative AI, it can also help create new content — from text and images to music and code — all from a simple prompt.

Here are five things to know before you get started.

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1. AI is a Machine Learning Model — Not a Human

When you interact with generative AI, the responses might feel surprisingly human. But AI doesn’t think or feel — it recognizes patterns.

This pattern recognition is possible through training. For example, a text-to-image model learns what a sneaker is by analyzing millions of images. Over time, it understands that sneakers usually have soles, laces, and logos.
So, if you ask it to “generate a sneaker with a pizza charm,” it can combine what it knows about sneakers, pizza, and charms to create a new image — even if it has never seen that exact combination before.

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2. Use AI to Empower, Assist, and Inspire

Generative AI is designed to assist your creative process, not replace it. Think of it as a tool to help you explore ideas and discover possibilities.

You can use AI to:

• Ask complex or curious questions

• Identify images or species you’re curious about

• Brainstorm storylines, designs, or concepts

Your creativity and judgment remain essential — AI works best when you guide it.

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3. AI Can Make Mistakes

Generative AI is a rapidly evolving technology, and it isn’t perfect.
It can misunderstand a query or make things up — what researchers call hallucinations.

For instance, if you ask, “Who will be the top gymnast in 2035?” it might predict a name, even though there’s no way to know. Similarly, a request for information about “bats” could return details about baseball bats instead of the flying mammals.

Treat AI responses as helpful starting points, not final answers.

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4. Always Verify Information

Whenever AI presents information as fact, it’s important to verify it.
If you’re unsure, cross-check using Google Search or other trusted sources.

If you come across inaccurate or inappropriate content, use the reporting tools built into many generative AI products. Your feedback helps improve the system for everyone.

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5. Stay Updated as AI Evolves

Generative AI is advancing quickly, and at Google, we’re committed to developing it responsibly — guided by principles that prioritize safety, transparency, and user trust.

To stay informed, visit ai.google for the latest updates, product news, and responsible AI practices.

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Get Started

Now that you know the essentials, try experimenting with generative AI. Use it to explore, create, and learn — all while staying thoughtful and responsible in how you engage with this technology.

Generative AI has the potential to expand what’s possible. How you use it will define what’s next.