What People Get Wrong About AI (and How to Use It Right)

Dear Techies,

AI is everywhere. Some say it will take over jobs. Others think it is overhyped. The truth sits somewhere in the middle.

Whether you are building your career or running a small business, understanding how AI works gives you an edge. Let’s clear up the biggest myths and talk about how to use AI to work smarter.

Myth 1: AI will take everyone’s jobs
Reality: AI replaces tasks, not people.
It is great at repetitive work but still needs human creativity, empathy, and judgment.

Action step:
Pick one task you do often, like summarizing reports or replying to standard emails. Try ChatGPT, Gemini, or Notion AI to handle it faster. Track how much time you save this week.

Myth 2: AI always gets it right
Reality: AI predicts patterns but does not understand meaning.
It can sound confident and still be wrong.

Action step:
Use AI for first drafts, not final answers. Always check facts, numbers, or links before sharing. If something feels off, verify it.

Myth 3: You need to be a tech expert to use AI
Reality: You do not need coding skills. You need clear questions.
If you can type, you can use AI. The secret is how you ask.

Action step:
Use this prompt format:

Explain [topic] as if I were [role], and give me 3 examples.

Example: Explain data privacy as if I were a small business owner, and give me 3 examples.

Try three prompts like this during the week and note how the answers improve.

Myth 4: AI will solve all my problems
Reality: AI is a tool, not a mind reader.
It only helps when you give it clear direction.

Action step:
Before using AI, write down what problem you want to solve. Add who you are, what you need, and why it matters. If the answer is off, refine your question and try again.

Myth 5: AI tools steal your data
Reality: Some collect user data, but many give you control.
Checking your settings once protects you more than most people realize.

Action step:
Go to your AI app’s settings and look for Data or Privacy. Turn off “Use my data to train models” if that option exists.

Myth 6: AI is too expensive for regular people
Reality: Most tools have free plans that are strong enough for daily use.
You do not need to pay to start using AI effectively.

Action step:
Pick one free AI tool this week. Use it for something you already do, like planning content, summarizing notes, or writing emails. Upgrade only if it saves you hours each week.

Your 5-Minute Challenge
Pick one myth from this list. Test the truth yourself. Use AI for one task and see what difference it makes.

AI is not here to replace you. It is here to make you faster and more efficient. Those who learn how to use AI thoughtfully will move ahead in their careers and projects.

Start small. Stay curious. Treat AI as your co-pilot, not your boss.

Your Tech Partner,
Ijeoma Ndu, PhD

P.S. Did you know I wrote a book? Tech Savvy Starts Here is available on Amazon—a practical, engaging guide for families and educators helping kids build confidence with technology. Check it out here.

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🧠 Keep learning. | 💬 Keep questioning. | 💥 Keep growing.