Free AI foundations · Lesson 1 of 12
Understand what AI is doing
Distinguish a prediction, a generated draft and a verified fact.
Understand
AI is a broad family of computer methods for tasks such as recognizing patterns, selecting options and generating content. Not every automated task needs AI: a timer following a fixed rule is different from a model learning patterns from examples. Machine learning is one way to build AI. Generative AI produces new text, images, audio or other content from patterns learned during training.
Training adjusts a model using examples. Using an already-trained model to produce an answer is called inference. A language model processes pieces of text called tokens and predicts continuations in context. A fluent answer is not proof that the model looked up a fact, understands your situation or has permission to act. Some products connect models to search or other tools; those capabilities must be checked separately.
Keep three things separate: what you supplied, what the system generated, and what you verified. A draft can be useful before it is true or ready to use. Human-like conversation does not establish consciousness or dependable judgment. You do not need to settle those philosophical questions to set practical limits on a tool.
Try it in your life or work
Personal practice
List three tasks you do in a week. Label each as fixed-rule automation, pattern recognition, or drafting. Example: a repeating alarm is fixed-rule automation; sorting photos by subject uses pattern recognition; writing an invitation is drafting. Some tasks can involve more than one.
Business practice
Label these parts of a fictional inquiry process: route messages by a fixed subject tag; predict the inquiry category; draft a reply. Mark which output needs a factual check and which action requires approval.
Keep: A three-column list: supplied facts / AI additions / facts to verify.
Use fictional or non-sensitive information. Written practice does not require an AI account. The live demos are optional; other tools have their own terms and costs.
Show the answer and explanation
The model produced a plausible answer; current hours still need checking.. Writing an answer does not establish source retrieval, current accuracy or authorization.
This is a self-check, not a scored certification. Answers and exercise notes are not submitted to AstraCruz.