A reading path
I'm just starting to learn about AI.
If you've heard about ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or Copilot but you've never quite understood what's underneath — start here. Seven topics, in the order they make sense in. No prior tech knowledge assumed.
- Large language model A large language model (LLM) is the engine behind ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Plain-English explanation of what it is and what it can and can't do.
- Prompt A prompt is what you type to an AI. Why a small change in wording can change the answer a lot — plain-English explanation.
- Training data Training data is the books, websites, and conversations an AI learnt from. Plain-English explanation of what's in it and why it matters.
- Hallucination Hallucination — when an AI says something untrue with full confidence, as if it were a fact. 30-second gist with optional depth.
- Cross-checking AI A 30-second routine for any AI answer that actually matters. Plain-English, practical.
- AI agents An AI that doesn't just answer — it goes off and does things. What that changes.
- "AGI" The phrase you keep hearing on the news. What it actually means, in plain English.
Other reading paths
I'm worried about my mum or dad.
Family topics · voice clones · panic call · safe-word · romance scams · setup checklist
My kid uses AI for homework.
Kids & school · how AI writes · when to step in · honest use · tutoring
I work in a non-tech job.
Work topics · pasting work · meetings · disclosure · auto-replies · enterprise vs public