The short answer: open a free AI chat app such as ChatGPT or Google Gemini, type or paste the thing you don’t understand, and add “Explain this in simple words.” The AI replies in plain English in a few seconds. Two rules: double-check anything important, because AI can get things wrong (Google), and never type in private details like your Social Security number, bank details or passwords. Some chats are read by human reviewers (Google).
Step 1: Get an official AI app
- ChatGPT: download it from the App Store or Google Play. OpenAI says to check that the app is published by OpenAI, because there are copycats (OpenAI). You can also use it in a web browser at chatgpt.com.
- Gemini: Google’s AI comes on many Android phones. You can also get the Gemini app from your app store, or use it at gemini.google.com.
- For a gentle introduction, see What is AI? A simple explanation.
Step 2: Ask it to explain
- Open the app and tap the message box at the bottom.
- Type your question, or paste in the confusing text. To paste, press and hold in the box and tap Paste.
- Tell it how you want the answer, for example:
- “Explain this letter from my insurance company in simple words.”
- “What does ‘deductible’ mean? Give me an everyday example.”
- “Explain this like I’m new to computers, in three short steps.”
- Tap send. If the answer is still confusing, reply with “Simpler, please” or “What does that word mean?”
Many AI apps also let you talk instead of type. Tap the microphone button and speak your question.
Good things to ask AI to explain
- A medical word from a visit summary (then confirm with your doctor or pharmacist).
- A confusing line on a bill or a terms-and-conditions page.
- An error message on your computer or phone.
- Instructions that don’t make sense, such as “Clear your cache.”
Check the answer
AI can sound confident and still be wrong. Google says Gemini “can hallucinate and present inaccurate information as factual” (Google). Google also says not to rely on Gemini’s answers as medical, legal or financial advice (Google). Use the AI’s answer to understand the topic, then confirm with the company, your doctor or another trusted person.
What never to type into an AI chat
Google says some Gemini chats are reviewed by trained human reviewers, and asks users not to enter confidential information they wouldn’t want a reviewer to see (Google). Before you paste a letter or email, delete:
- your Social Security or Medicare number,
- bank and credit card numbers,
- passwords and PINs, and
- your full address and date of birth.
Be wary of anything that claims to be an AI helper and asks for payment details or remote access to your computer. See how to spot AI scams.
Next, try using AI to write an email.
