Google AI Essentials
A broad introduction to using generative AI in everyday work, including prompting and responsible use.
GOOD FIT IFYou want a structured introduction to workplace AI.
Consider: Broader than a dedicated prompting course.
YOUR NEXT SKILL, CHOSEN WELL
A considered shortlist of AI courses for everyday work.
Find the right fit for your goals, time and budget.
THE SHORTLIST
Selected for a nontechnical audience · Syllabus-based comparisons · Checked 23 September 2026
A broad introduction to using generative AI in everyday work, including prompting and responsible use.
GOOD FIT IFYou want a structured introduction to workplace AI.
Consider: Broader than a dedicated prompting course.
Learn a five-step prompting method and develop reusable prompts for everyday tasks.
GOOD FIT IFYou want more deliberate practice writing and improving prompts.
Consider: Does not qualify you for a dedicated prompt-engineer role.
Andrew Ng introduces generative AI, its uses and limitations, and how to think about AI projects.
GOOD FIT IFYou want context before choosing tools or business projects.
Consider: A foundation, rather than deep training in one workplace tool.
A framework for collaborating with AI and judging when its output is useful.
GOOD FIT IFYou want a free start with thoughtful, practical AI use.
Consider: Focuses on collaboration principles, not one job-specific workflow.
An introduction to AI terminology, project planning and organisational strategy.
GOOD FIT IFYou need to discuss AI opportunities with a team.
Consider: Less focused on daily chatbot use than workplace courses.
Explore chatbots, computer vision and translation with accessible AI tools.
GOOD FIT IFYou want a free introduction with practical activities.
Consider: A broad tour rather than deep expertise in a single tool.
A guided introduction to using Claude, from conversations to organised work and connected tools.
GOOD FIT IFYou have chosen Claude and want a structured orientation.
Consider: Some demonstrated features need a paid Claude plan.
Explore generative AI applications across text, images and other media.
GOOD FIT IFYou want to experiment across several types of AI output.
Consider: Includes code-generation examples alongside nontechnical activities.
Practise structured prompting approaches and evaluate how different instructions change outputs.
GOOD FIT IFYou want guided labs alongside prompting theory.
Consider: Allow time for exercises beyond watching the videos.
A short introduction to generative AI and how it differs from traditional machine learning.
GOOD FIT IFYou want an initial orientation before committing to a longer course.
Consider: A brief overview, not a substantial workplace practice programme.
An introduction to language models, their uses and the idea of prompt tuning.
GOOD FIT IFYou want to understand the technology behind chatbots.
Consider: More conceptual than a course on everyday productivity.
A longer introduction to reusable prompt patterns, taught by Jules White.
GOOD FIT IFYou can make time for a more sustained prompting course.
Consider: The provider estimate is two weeks at ten hours per week.
MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE
Choose between understanding the basics and getting hands-on at work.
Read the guide ↗02 / BUILD A SKILLWhat to look for beyond a list of clever prompts.
Read the guide ↗03 / HEAD TO HEADTwo different starting points. Here’s how to choose.
Compare the courses ↗CLARITY BEFORE COMMISSION
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