Getting started with Google Gemini for everyday life

Find and open Gemini

Your first step is to open Google Gemini in your web browser, as there's no program to install. Open your preferred web browser (like Chrome, Safari, or Edge) on your device, then type gemini.google.com into the address bar at the top of the window and press Enter. If you're not already signed in, you'll see a Google sign-in page. Use your usual Google account details (email and password) to log in. Once you're in, you'll see a clean, simple screen with a large blank area in the middle and a text box at the bottom. If it looks different: On a mobile device, the layout might be more compact, but the main text box and a way to sign in will still be prominent. If you're taken to a 'Get started' page, just follow the prompts to agree to the terms. You'll know it worked when you see the main chat screen with a large text box at the bottom, ready for your input, and probably a 'Hi, how can I help?' message.

Understand how Gemini differs from normal search

Now that you've found Gemini, let's understand its core difference from a traditional Google search. When you search on Google, the search engine looks for matching keywords and gives you a list of links to websites. You then click those links and read through various pages to find your answer. Gemini, on the other hand, is built on an LLM (large language model), which is like a highly advanced, conversational computer program. Think of it as a super-smart engine that has processed vast amounts of text and can understand your questions, then write a direct, cohesive response just for you, often summarising information from many sources. This means it writes answers, rather than lists of places to find answers. If it looks different: This step is conceptual, so your screen won't change, but your understanding will. You'll know it worked when you feel ready to ask Gemini a question like you're talking to a knowledgeable person, not just typing keywords into a search bar.

Write your first prompt

Now it’s time to ask Gemini something! In the AI world, the instruction or question you type into the text box is called a prompt. Locate the large text box at the bottom of the Gemini screen, where you type your message. Click inside it to make your cursor appear, then type your question or instruction. After you've finished typing, look for a button that resembles a small paper plane icon or an arrow, usually located to the right of the text box. Click this button to send your prompt to Gemini. The AI will then process your request and begin typing its response in the main conversation area above. If it looks different: The submit button might be labelled "Send" or just be a simple arrow. On mobile, the keyboard might cover parts of the screen but the text box and send icon remain visible. You'll know it worked when you see Gemini's response appearing directly on your screen, offering a detailed answer based on your input.

Chat back and forth to refine the results

One of Gemini's most powerful features is its ability to remember what you've already discussed in your current conversation. This means you don't need to start a brand new "search" if the first answer isn't quite right or you want more detail. After Gemini provides an initial response, simply go back to the text box at the bottom of the screen. Type your follow-up question or request for adjustment, referring back to Gemini's previous answer. Click the "Send" button (paper plane icon or arrow) again to submit your new instruction. Gemini will then take your previous conversation into account and generate a modified or expanded response. If it looks different: If you accidentally start a new conversation (usually by clicking a "New Chat" button or similar), Gemini won't remember your previous discussion. Make sure you stay in the same chat window. You'll know it worked when Gemini revises its previous answer or provides new information based on your latest request, all within the same conversation, showing it understood the context.

• "Can you write out a quick shopping list for any extra ingredients I might need?"