Key Takeaways from Google's AI Essentials Course

Introduction

• Spent 5 hours and $49 on Google's AI Essentials course for beginners.
• Aim: To share key takeaways, pros and cons, and whether the certificate helps in getting paid more.

Categories of AI Tools

1. Standalone Tools

   • Independently operated AI-powered software.
   • Examples: Chat Bots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Perplexity.
   • Specialized apps: Spico, Otter AI, Midjourney, Gamma.
   • Accessible directly via websites/apps.

2. Tools with Integrated AI Features

   • Built-in enhancements within existing software.
   • Examples: Google Docs with Gemini for Workspace AI.
   • Contrast: Use standalone Midjourney or integrate with Google Slides.

3. Custom AI Solutions

   • Tailor-made applications for specific problems.
   • Example: John Hopkins' AI for detecting sepsis.
   • Not necessarily technical; can be user-friendly.

Course Tips and Techniques

Prompt Engineering

• Surface Implied Context

  • Example: Vegetarian restaurant suggestions; needs to be explicit for AI tools.
  • Importance of explicitly stating context for quality output.

• Zero Shot vs Few Shot Prompting

  • Zero Shot: No examples in prompt.
  • One Shot: One example included.
  • Few Shot: Two or more examples for better output.

• Chain of Thought Prompting

  • Dividing tasks into manageable steps for accurate AI results.
  • Example: Writing a cover letter in steps.

Understanding AI Limitations

• Bias in Training Data
  • Example: Limited graphic styles in text-to-image models.
• Insufficient Training Data
  • AI models may lack recent information.
• Hallucinations
  • Factual inaccuracies; requires double-checking for critical tasks.

Course Review

Not Suitable For:

• Experienced AI tool users wanting in-depth knowledge.
• Vague examples; lacks depth in practical applications.

Suitable For:

• Beginners and visual learners.
• Learning from Google experts with visual aids and interactive elements.
• Includes AI tool exploration and a glossary of terms.

Pros:

• Expert instruction by Google employees.
• Clear visual explanations and interactive activities.
• Legitimate certificate useful for job applications or other opportunities.

Cons:

• Lacks in-depth practical examples for advanced users.

Conclusion

• Suitable for beginners and those needing a structured foundation.
• Certificate may aid in attracting prospective employers.
• Links provided for additional resources and related videos.