Step 2: Exploring AI Tools and Features

“Welcome to Step 2! In this step, we’ll explore how to choose the right AI tool for your trade, set it up, and understand the features that will make it work best for you. AI tools are designed to save you time, help solve problems, and make your work easier—whether that’s generating estimates, troubleshooting equipment, or planning a project. By the end of this step, you’ll be equipped to use AI tools that fit your workflow and adapt them to your unique needs.”

Choosing the Right AI Tool

“There are dozens of AI tools out there, but not all of them are built with trades professionals in mind. The key is to choose a tool that aligns with your goals.”

Popular AI Tools for Trades:

1. ChatGPT – Best for writing, troubleshooting, and brainstorming.

   • Use Case: Generating repair guides or client emails.

2. Jasper AI – Ideal for marketing and professional content.

   • Use Case: Writing proposals or creating polished project summaries.

3. Fixly AI – Specialized in diagnostics and technical guides.

   • Use Case: Troubleshooting HVAC, plumbing, or electrical issues.

4. DALL·E – Perfect for creating visual content.

   • Use Case: Generating mockups or design ideas.

5. Notion AI – Great for organizing and managing tasks.

   • Use Case: Building schedules or tracking materials.

How to Decide:

“Ask yourself these questions:

• What’s the main task I need help with?

• Do I need text, visuals, or project organization?

• How much time can I spend learning a tool?”

Getting Started with an AI Tool

“Let’s walk through setting up a tool. For this example, we’ll use ChatGPT, but the process is similar for most platforms.”

Steps to Set Up ChatGPT:

1. Visit ChatGPT’s website.

2. Sign up using your email or Google account.

3. Choose the free plan or upgrade to Pro for faster responses.

4. Test it with a simple prompt:

   • ‘Write a step-by-step guide for changing a flat tire.’

Pro Tip:

“Many AI tools offer free trials—take advantage of these to explore features without committing to a paid plan.”

Understanding Key AI Features

“Once your tool is set up, it’s important to understand its key features. These settings help you get the most out of every prompt.”

Key Features to Know:

1. Temperature – Controls creativity.

   • Lower values (e.g., 0.2): Focused, predictable responses (great for guides).

   • Higher values (e.g., 0.8): Creative, exploratory responses (ideal for brainstorming).

2. Token Limit – Determines response length.

   • Use fewer tokens for summaries, more for detailed guides.

3. Output Style – Customize how the response is formatted.

   • Examples: Bullet points, step-by-step instructions, or a professional tone.

Examples of Trades-Specific Prompts

“Let’s look at how you can customize prompts to fit your work.”

Scenario 1: Writing a Project Estimate

Prompt:
‘You are a contractor. Generate an estimate for replacing 1,000 sq ft of roofing with asphalt shingles, including labor and materials.’

Scenario 2: Troubleshooting an HVAC System

Prompt:
‘You are an HVAC technician. Diagnose why a residential HVAC system isn’t cooling and provide step-by-step solutions.’

Scenario 3: Generating a Checklist

Prompt:
‘Create a checklist for preparing walls for painting, including tools needed and safety precautions.’

Practice Exercise: Test a Tool

“Now it’s your turn to try!

1. Choose an AI tool—ChatGPT is a great starting point.

2. Write a prompt like this:
   ‘You are a plumber. Write a troubleshooting guide for a clogged kitchen sink, including tools and common causes.’

3. Review the response. Does it meet your expectations? Refine your prompt if needed.”

Common Setup Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

“Here are a few mistakes to watch out for when getting started:

1. Not Testing Prompts: Always test your first few prompts to see how the tool responds.

2. Skipping Tutorials: Most tools offer quick-start guides—take advantage of them.

3. Overcomplicating Settings: Start simple. Focus on mastering the basics like temperature and output style.”

Future-Proofing Your Setup

“As AI tools evolve, expect new features like voice interaction and multi-modal inputs (e.g., combining text with images). The good news? Everything you’re learning about prompts will work with these future updates. Stay flexible and curious, and you’ll adapt easily to what’s next.”

Your Progress Tracker

“🎉 Great work—you’ve completed Step 2! Here’s what you’ve accomplished:

• Selected an AI tool that fits your needs.

• Learned about key features like temperature, tokens, and output styles.

• Tested your first trades-specific prompt.

You’re now ready to dive deeper into crafting better, more precise prompts.”

Next Steps

“In Step 3, we’ll focus on refining your prompts for precision. You’ll learn how to troubleshoot vague outputs, add constraints, and write prompts that consistently deliver high-quality results.”