AI Fast and Easy
This blog will expand on the book's content and demonstrate some of the projects from “AI Fast and Easy,” providing detailed instructions. Here, we will also share updates on beginner-friendly tools that I’ve found since publishing the book (there seem to be many new tools being developed daily). We appreciate your comments, suggestions, and corrections. I hope we can form an active community of AI discoverers sharing the adventure.
Thank you, and enjoy the journey!
Disclosure: Much of the material here was created with the assistance of AI.
Create a simple story book in seconds.
I uploaded the image below and asked Gemini to create a story using the following prompts.
Grog (a large powerful Troll/Ogre) with a large coffee mug on a table full of coffee beans.
Prompt 1
Grog is a coffee-loving, strong, and fierce protector. Grog lives in an enchanted forest that lets him interact with real-life people as well as his enchanted environment. Create a story about his love for his family and the people, animals, and beings he meets and protects. This created the story, but Grog's clothing and appearance changed a bit on each page. So I added prompt 2 to get the final version.
Prompt 2
Recreate this story but ensure that Grog's clothing and appearance remain consistent throughout.
You can click below to read it or have it read to you.
This is the first version, notice how this clothes change on different pages.
A Simple Automation Project Using the Free Version of IFTTT
Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Welcome back to the AI Fast and Easy Blog, where we break down complex tools into bite-sized, actionable guides.
Today, we’re diving into the world of automation with IFTTT—short for "If This Then That." If you’ve ever wished your apps and devices could talk to each other and handle repetitive tasks for you, IFTTT another automation tool for your toolbox. Best of all, you can get started with their free version, and I’m going to walk you through a super simple project to show you just how powerful it can be.
Let’s get started!
IFTTT is a free web-based service that lets you create connections between hundreds of apps, services, and devices. Think of it as a digital assistant that automates tasks by linking two things together in a cause-and-effect relationship. For example, “If I post a photo on Instagram, then save it to my Dropbox.” These connections are called Applets, and they can save you tons of time.
The free version of IFTTT is perfect for beginners. While it has some limitations—like only allowing a small number of active Applets at a time—it still offers plenty of functionality to test the waters and automate everyday tasks. You can connect popular services like Gmail, Google Drive, Twitter, and more without spending a dime. Ready to see it in action? Let’s create a basic Applet that will make your life easier.
Your First IFTTT Project: Save Gmail Attachments to Google Drive
For this beginner-friendly project, we’ll set up an Applet that automatically saves any attachment you receive in Gmail to a folder in Google Drive. This is a fantastic way to keep important files organized without having to manually download and upload them. Here’s how to do it, step by step.
Step 1: Sign Up for a Free IFTTT Account
First things first, head over to https://ifttt.com and click on “Try for Free”, “Get Started,” or “Sign Up.” You can create an account using your email or sign in with Google or Apple for a quicker setup. Once you’re in, you’ll see a dashboard with options to explore Applets or create your own. Don’t worry if it looks overwhelming at first—we’ll take it slow.
Step 2: Connect Your Services
Before you can create an Applet, you need to connect the services you’ll be using. In this case, that’s Gmail and Google Drive. From your IFTTT dashboard, click on your profile icon (usually in the top-right corner) and select “Create.” Then, click on the “+” sign next to “If This” to choose a trigger. Search for “Gmail” and select it. You’ll be prompted to sign in to your Google account and grant IFTTT permission to access your Gmail. Do the same for Google Drive when you set up the “Then That” action later. Don’t worry—IFTTT is secure, and you can revoke access anytime.
Step 3: Set Up the Trigger
Now that Gmail is connected, choose the trigger “New Attachment Received.” This means the Applet will activate every time you get an email with an attachment. Click “Create Trigger” to move to the next step.
Step 4: Set Up the Action
Next, click the “+” sign next to “Then That” and search for “Google Drive.” Select the action “Upload File from URL.” This will tell IFTTT to save the attachment to your Google Drive. You can customize the folder path if you want the files to be saved to a specific location (such as “Gmail Attachments”), or leave it as the default. IFTTT will automatically pull the attachment’s URL from Gmail and upload it for you. Hit “Create Action.”
Step 5: Review and Activate
Give your Applet a quick review to make sure everything looks good. You can name it something like “Gmail to Drive Backup” for clarity. Once you’re satisfied, click “Finish,” and toggle the Applet to “On.” That’s it! The next time you receive an email with an attachment, IFTTT will automatically save it to your Google Drive without requiring any action on your part.
Why This Automation Rocks
This simple Applet is a game-changer for productivity. Whether you’re receiving work documents, receipts, or family photos via email, you no longer have to manually save each one. Everything gets neatly stored in Google Drive, where you can access it from any device. It’s a small step, but it frees up mental space and time for more important things. Additionally, it’s a great way to dip your toes into automation without requiring any coding or technical expertise.
Exploring More with the Free Version
Now that you’ve got your first Applet up and running, why stop there? The free version of IFTTT lets you experiment with other simple automations. Head to the “Explore” section on the IFTTT website to browse pre-made Applets. Here are a few beginner-friendly ideas to try:
- Social Media Backup: Automatically save your Instagram posts to Google Photos.
- Weather Alerts: Get a notification on your phone if it’s going to rain tomorrow.
- Task Reminders: Send yourself a reminder in Slack or via email when you add a new task to Google Calendar.
Keep in mind that the free plan has a cap on the number of Applets you can have active at once (usually just a couple), so you may need to toggle some off to try new ones. Still, it’s more than enough to get a feel for what IFTTT can do.
Tips for Success with IFTTT
As you experiment with IFTTT, here are a couple of tips to keep things running smoothly. First, double-check that your connected services are working by testing your Applets after setup. If something doesn’t trigger, it might be a permission issue or a glitch—reconnecting the service usually resolves the issue. Second, start with simple Applets before diving into more complex ones. Getting comfortable with the basics will build your confidence. Lastly, don’t be afraid to explore the IFTTT community for inspiration. There are numerous creative ideas available!
Let’s Hear from You!
Automation is all about making life easier, and IFTTT’s free version is the perfect sandbox to start experimenting. I hope this guide has shown you how simple it can be to set up something useful, like saving Gmail attachments to Google Drive. Now it’s your turn—what’s the first Applet you’re going to try? Have you already used IFTTT for something cool? Drop a comment below and share your projects or any questions you’ve got. Let’s learn from each other and make the most of this awesome tool!
Until next time, keep exploring and automating with AI Fast and Easy!
Processing Squarespace Form Submissions with Zapier
Hey there, AI newbies, if you’re running a website on Squarespace, you’ve probably set up forms to capture leads, feedback, or inquiries from your visitors. But what happens after someone hits “Submit”? You’ll receive an email containing the form data. Manually handling the data for each submission can be a real time-suck, especially if your site is getting decent traffic. That’s where automation comes in, and today, we’re diving into how to process Squarespace form submissions with Zapier, a game-changing tool that can save you hours. Whether you’re a small business owner, a blogger, or just getting started, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. Let’s get started!
What Are Squarespace Form Submissions, and Why Automate Them?
Squarespace makes it super easy to add forms to your website. Whether it’s a contact form, a newsletter signup, or a custom order form, these tools (found in Form Blocks, Newsletter Blocks, or Cover Page Forms) enable you to collect valuable information from your audience. Every time someone fills out a form, that’s a “submission”, a piece of data you can use to grow your business or connect with your visitors.
The problem? If you’re manually downloading submissions or copying data into other tools, you’re wasting time on repetitive tasks. Automating this process means you can instantly send that data where it needs to go, whether that’s to your email inbox, a CRM, or a spreadsheet. Automation saves time, reduces errors, and lets you focus on what matters most: engaging with your audience and growing your brand.
Meet Zapier: Your Automation Best Friend
Enter Zapier, an online tool that seamlessly connects apps and automates workflows. Think of Zapier as a digital bridge between Squarespace and over 8,000 other apps like Gmail, Slack, Google Sheets, or Salesforce. With Zapier, you create “Zaps”, simple automated workflows that trigger actions based on events. For example, when a form is submitted on Squarespace, Zapier can automatically send an email or add the contact to your mailing list. The best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to set this up. Zapier offers a free plan to get started, with premium plans kicking in at around $20/month for more advanced features.
Step-by-Step: Connecting Squarespace Forms to Zapier
Ready to automate your Squarespace form submissions? Let’s break it down into easy steps. (Note: This works for Form Blocks, Newsletter Blocks, and Cover Page Forms; other forms on Squarespace can’t connect to Zapier just yet.)
1. Sign Up for Zapier: If you don’t already have an account, head over to Zapier.com and create one. The free plan is perfect for testing the waters with a few Zaps.
To connect Zapier to Squarespace, you’ll need to set permissions via an API key. The wizards make it a pretty easy process on a computer (I was not able to complete it on an iPad or iPhone)
2. Create a New Zap: Once logged in, click “Create Zap.” A Zap always starts with a trigger (the event that initiates the process) and ends with an action (the next step that occurs).
3. Set Squarespace as Your Trigger: Search for “Squarespace” in the trigger app section and select it. Choose the trigger event “New Form Submission.” You’ll need to connect your Squarespace account by logging in through Zapier. Ensure you’ve the correct Squarespace plan. Zapier integration is available on Core, Plus, Advanced, Business, Commerce Basic, and Commerce Advanced plans.
4. Select Your Form: Zapier will pull up a list of forms from your Squarespace site. Pick the one you want to automate. Test the trigger by submitting a sample form entry on your site to ensure Zapier can fetch the data. If you only see demo data during setup, submit a real entry to validate the connection.
5. Choose Your Action App: Now, decide what happens with the form data. Search for the app you want to connect (like Gmail for emails or Google Sheets for logging data) and select the action. For instance, pick “Send Email” in Gmail or “Create Spreadsheet Row” in Google Sheets.
6. Map the Data: Zapier lets you map form fields to the action app. If your form collects a name and email, you can insert those into an email template or a spreadsheet column. Customize this step to fit your needs.
7. Test and Turn On Your Zap: Run a test to make sure everything works. Once you’re happy, turn on the Zap. Now, every new form submission will automatically trigger your chosen action.
Practical Examples of Squarespace-Zapier Automations
Not sure what to automate? Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Send Auto-Reply Emails: Set up a Zap to send a confirmation email via Gmail or a tool like Mailchimp whenever someone submits a form. Personalize it with their name or other form data for a friendly touch.
- Add Contacts to a CRM: Connect Squarespace to tools like HubSpot or Square to automatically create new customer records from form submissions. No more manual data entry!
- Log Submissions to a Spreadsheet: Use Google Sheets to store all form data in one place. This is great for tracking inquiries or survey responses over time.
- Notify Your Team: Send a Slack message to your team channel every time a form is submitted, so everyone stays in the loop without checking emails.
Troubleshooting Tips for Smooth Automation
Setting up Zaps is usually straightforward, but hiccups can happen. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:
- Test Data vs. Real Data: If Zapier only shows demo data during setup, submit a real form entry on your live site. This helps you map actual fields correctly.
- Zap Not Running Live: If test Zaps work but live submissions don’t, double-check that your Zap is turned on and that your Squarespace form is correctly linked. Also, ensure there are no filters blocking certain submissions.
- Data Mapping Errors: If data isn’t showing up right in your action app (like a phone number not formatting correctly in a CRM), check the field mapping in Zapier. Some apps require specific formats, so tweak as needed.
Why You Should Start Automating Today
Automating Squarespace form submissions with Zapier isn’t just about saving time; it’s about scaling your business or project without the growing pains. Imagine never missing a lead because you forgot to check a form, or instantly thanking a customer for their inquiry with a personalized email. These small automations add up to a big impact on your efficiency and professionalism.
Let’s Wrap It Up
There you have it, a beginner-friendly guide to processing Squarespace form submissions with Zapier. From setting up your first Zap to troubleshooting little snags, you’ve got the tools to streamline your workflow and focus on what you love most about your business. So, why not give it a try? Head over to Zapier, connect your Squarespace account, and create your first automation today. Got questions or cool Zap ideas? Drop them in the comments below, I’d love to hear how you’re using this combo to make magic happen!
Happy automating, friends!
Which LLM is best for beginners?
Which LLM (Large Language Model) is the best for beginners? I asked ChatGPT, Grok, Claude, and Perplexity what they thought.
I used the following prompt with each service:
“Compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of all the major LLMs available to the average beginner user, including Grok, ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini (and any others you think are useful or beneficial to beginners), and create a chart with columns for Rank, Name, Best use case, strengths and weaknesses, and rank from most useful for beginners to least.”
Below are the results from each model.
ChatGPT (4o) (It’s not surprising that ChatGPT was first on this list.)
Grok 4 (I was suprised at where Grok, ranked itself.)
Claude (Sonnet 4)
Perplexity (Pro) This required a bit of work to recreate the table as the original was useless
Summary
It is fairly clear that all LLMs consider ChatGPT to be the most beginner-friendly among the group. I strongly suggest starting with ChatGPT, but once you’ve become comfortable with it, please also try the others. I like working with Grok, even though it’s ranked lower, especially for making memes for personal use.
I hope you found the post helpful or useful. Please let me know if you have other topics (for beginners) that you would like me to write about.
Bill
10 Tips for Using AI Tools
10 tips for using AI for beginners.
AI tools are revolutionizing the way we work, learn, and create. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or simply curious about technology, leveraging AI can help you brainstorm ideas, design graphics, write content, and much more. However, starting with AI can feel intimidating. This comprehensive guide combines practical advice and direct resources to help you confidently utilize AI tools, avoid common pitfalls, and optimize your productivity. Read on for in-depth tips, real-world examples, and actionable steps.
1. Start with Free Tools
Why start free?
Free AI tools allow you to experiment without commitment, making them ideal for beginners. They offer core features at no cost, allowing you to create, edit, and explore without incurring any expenses.
Recommended Free Tools:
· Canva (design): https://www.canva.com
Create posters, social media graphics, and presentations with ease using our intuitive drag-and-drop features.
· Grammarly (writing): https://www.grammarly.com
Instantly enhance your writing with suggestions for grammar, tone, and clarity.
· Google Bard (chat): https://bard.google.com
Ask questions, brainstorm, or summarize information in natural language.
How to get started:
Sign up for free, explore the basic functions, and don’t worry about making mistakes. Free versions have some limitations, but they’re ideal for learning and building confidence. Once you’re comfortable, you can decide if advanced (paid) features are worth it.
2. Choose User-Friendly Interfaces
Why does interface matter?
A simple, intuitive interface reduces overwhelm, allowing you to focus on creativity rather than technical hurdles.
User-Friendly Picks:
· Microsoft Designer (graphics): https://designer.microsoft.com
Create stunning images in just a few clicks with guided prompts.
· Otter.ai (transcription): https://otter.ai
Automatically transcribe meetings and lectures with easy-to-read timestamps.
Tips for evaluating tools:
· Look for clear buttons, minimal jargon, and helpful onboarding.
· Watch a quick demo or explore the homepage before signing up.
· Choose tools that feel approachable—if it feels confusing, try another!
3. Use Tutorials and Guides
Why tutorials?
Tutorials break down complex features and help you avoid common mistakes. Many platforms offer step-by-step guides for beginners.
Where to find them:
· Canva Tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/canva
· ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com
· OpenAI Blog (ChatGPT tips): https://www.openai.com/blog
How to use them:
· Search for “beginner tutorial” plus the tool’s name on YouTube or Google.
· Spend 10–20 minutes watching or reading guides before diving in.
· Bookmark help sections or revisit guides whenever you get stuck.
4. Experiment with Templates
Why templates?
Templates allow you to create professional-looking content quickly, even if you have no design or editing experience.
Great template-based tools:
· Canva Templates: https://www.canva.com/templates
· Kapwing (video editing): https://www.kapwing.com
How to experiment:
· Pick a template for your project (social post, flyer, video, etc.).
· Customize colors, text, and images to fit your needs.
· Don’t aim for perfection—use templates as a learning tool and creative springboard.
5. Start Small
Why start small?
Tackling small tasks first helps you learn features without feeling overwhelmed. Each small win builds your confidence.
Beginner-friendly ideas:
· ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com
Draft a short email, brainstorm ideas, or summarize a paragraph.
· Looka (logo design): https://www.looka.com
Design a simple logo using easy color pickers and icon suggestions.
Tips:
· Focus on one feature at a time (e.g., text generation, logo preview).
· Set a mini-goal, like creating one graphic or writing one email.
· Celebrate your progress and gradually try more advanced features.
6. Leverage Help Features
Why use help features?
AI tools often include built-in help, FAQs, and live chat to answer your questions quickly.
Examples:
· Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com
Provides real-time writing suggestions and explanations.
· Jasper.ai (writing assistant): https://www.jasper.ai
Offers prompt tips and example use cases.
How to get help:
· Look for “Help” buttons, tooltips, or question marks in the interface.
· Use browser extensions for on-the-go assistance (e.g., Grammarly in emails).
· Don’t hesitate to reach out to support or community forums if you’re stuck.
7. Join Online Communities
Why join communities?
Learning from others accelerates your progress, exposes you to new tools, and keeps you motivated.
Where to connect:
· Reddit r/AIForBeginners: https://www.reddit.com/r/AIForBeginners
· X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com
· Simplified (content creation): https://www.simplified.com
· QuillBot (paraphrasing): https://www.quillbot.com
How to get involved:
· Ask questions, share your projects, and offer tips to others.
· Follow hashtags like #AItools for updates and trends.
· Don’t be shy—communities are welcoming to newcomers and love to help.
8. Practice Regularly
Why practice matters:
Consistent practice builds fluency and confidence. Even 10 minutes a day can make a big difference.
Practice ideas:
· Use Simplified to design a new social post each day.
· Try QuillBot to paraphrase a news article or change the tone of text.
· Save your work and track your improvement over time.
Tips:
· Set small, achievable goals for each session.
· Don’t worry about making mistakes—each attempt is a learning opportunity.
· If you miss a day, just pick up where you left off.
9. Understand Limitations
Why know the limits?
AI tools are powerful but not perfect. They can make mistakes, misunderstand instructions, or produce generic content.
Examples:
· Jasper.ai: https://www.jasper.ai
May generate vague or repetitive text—always review outputs.
· ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com
Can occasionally misstate facts or miss nuances.
How to handle limitations:
· Always double-check important outputs for accuracy.
· Edit and personalize content to match your voice or brand.
· Use AI as a starting point, not the final product—your judgment is key.
10. Stay Safe with Data
Why data safety is crucial:
AI tools often process your data, making it essential to protect your privacy.
How to protect yourself:
· Avoid sharing sensitive information (passwords, financial data) in AI tools.
· Review privacy policies:
o Canva Privacy: https://www.canva.com/policies/privacy
o Grammarly Privacy: https://www.grammarly.com/privacy-policy
o ChatGPT (OpenAI Privacy): https://openai.com/policies/privacy-policy
· Use security features like two-factor authentication.
· Anonymize data for sensitive projects and delete old files regularly.
· Be cautious with free tools, as they may share or analyze your data for the purpose of improvement.
Bonus: Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to code?
No! Many AI tools are designed for non-coders. However, basic programming knowledge can unlock more advanced features.
Is AI only for tech experts?
Absolutely not. Anyone can start learning about AI, regardless of background or experience.
How do I stay motivated?
Set small, achievable goals, celebrate your progress, and connect with others who are also learning.
What if I make mistakes?
Mistakes are part of the learning process. Each attempt helps you improve and discover new features.
Final Thoughts
AI is transforming everything from education to business and creativity. By starting with free, user-friendly tools, using tutorials, joining communities, and practicing regularly, you’ll quickly gain confidence and skill. Remember to be mindful of limitations and data privacy, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or explore new features. Every expert was once a beginner—your journey with AI starts now!
For a more complete introduction to AI, get a copy of my book, “AI Fast and Easy: The AI Guide for Beginners.”