TECHISH · WORKSHOP GUIDE

AI, one question
at a time.

A hands-on starting point for asking a clear question, reviewing the answer, and choosing what to do next.

A Techish learning guide · Charlotte, North Carolina

01 · THE BASICS

What does “AI” mean?

Artificial intelligence is a broad name for computer systems that perform tasks such as finding patterns, working with language, or recognizing images. A chat-based AI tool can respond to a question, help draft a note, explain a topic, or organize ideas.

It creates a response from patterns in data and the instructions you provide. It can be useful, but it does not know your situation the way a trusted person does. It can leave things out or state an incorrect answer with confidence.

A simple way to picture it

YouAsk a questionIn your own words

AIFinds patternsCreates a possible response

YouReview itChoose what to use

02 · TRY IT

Build a clear question

Start with something ordinary. Add a few details that help the tool understand what you want.

Say your goalWhat would you like help doing?
Add useful contextShare general details that shape the answer.
Name your preferencesWhat should the answer include or avoid?
Choose a formatAsk for a short list, steps, or a simple explanation.

Example: what a chat with AI might look like

AI chat · example

YOUR QUESTIONHelp me plan a relaxed Saturday in Charlotte. Suggest three indoor activities with little walking, and tell me what details to verify.

AI RESPONSE · REVIEW BEFORE USINGHere are three ideas to explore: a museum visit, a library event, or a seated performance. Check the venue's official site for hours, accessibility, tickets, and current events.

Ask a follow-up…

Read the response, then ask a follow-up. You might say, “Make that list shorter,” or “What should I check on the venue’s official website?” Clear everyday language is enough.

03 · REVIEW

Give the answer a quick check

Check important facts. Confirm dates, prices, hours, and other details with a current, reliable source.
Open the sources. If the response includes links, visit them and see whether they support the answer.
Look for what is missing. Ask whether the response fits your question and leaves out an important detail.
Make the final choice yourself. Keep, change, or ignore the response based on what you learn.

A quick review before you act

SAMPLE ANSWER

“The event starts at 2:00 PM and tickets are available at the door.”

1 Check the date and time2 Open the official event page3 Decide what to trust

04 · STAY IN CONTROL

Protect your privacy

Do not enter passwords, sign-in codes, account numbers, private health details, or information you would not want shared. Use made-up examples when practicing. Before trying a new tool, review its privacy choices and terms.

For health, legal, money, or safety decisions, use AI to prepare questions—not to replace a qualified professional or an official source.

Pause before you type personal details

Safer practice“Help me write a general appointment checklist.”

Keep privatePasswords · sign-in codes · account numbers · health details

05 · YOUR TURN

Make it your own

One everyday task I might ask AI to help with:

One detail I will check before using the answer:

A question I want to bring to a workshop:

Put the steps together

1My goalWhat do I want help with?

2Helpful contextWhat general details matter?

3My preferred formatSteps, a short list, or a plain-language explanation

4Review and decideCheck key facts, then choose what to do

This Techish guide is for general education. AI tools, features, and privacy settings can change. Check important information before acting on it.