How to use AI to save time and money.
Let’s face it—AI has a reputation for being complicated, like trying to read a legal contract without crying. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a PhD, a coding background, or even tech-savvy friends to benefit from artificial intelligence.
AI is no longer just for tech bros in Silicon Valley or corporate powerhouses. It’s here to help you save time, save money, and, most importantly, avoid that second cup of coffee at 3 p.m. (well, maybe). In this article, we’ll break down 10 beginner-friendly ways to use AI that’ll make your life easier without melting your brain.
1. Automate Your Emails with Smart Replies
Imagine this: You open your inbox, and it doesn’t feel like staring into the abyss. AI tools like Gmail’s Smart Reply and Smart Compose predict your responses and even write polite emails for you (finally, no more starting with “Hope this email finds you well”).
• How it saves time: Cuts email response time in half.
• How it saves money: You don’t need to hire an assistant for basic email management.
2. Plan Your Day Like a Pro with AI-Powered Calendars
Tools like Microsoft Outlook’s AI Scheduler or Motion don’t just book meetings—they analyze your schedule, suggest optimal times, and help you focus on what matters.
• How it saves time: Eliminates scheduling back-and-forth.
• How it saves money: Reduces double-booking disasters (and the subsequent “oops” coffees you’ll owe).
3. Write Like Shakespeare with AI Copy Tools
Even if your last creative writing effort was a high school essay titled “Why I Deserve an A,” AI tools like Grammarly, Jasper, and Copy.ai can help you write with confidence.
• How it saves time: Cuts down editing and brainstorming hours.
• How it saves money: No need to outsource basic writing tasks.
4. Say Goodbye to Budgeting Headaches
Budgeting apps like Cleo and YNAB (You Need A Budget) use AI to analyze your spending habits, suggest ways to save, and even nag you (in a friendly way) about your impulse purchases.
• How it saves time: Automated reports and spending insights.
• How it saves money: Helps you curb overspending and stick to your budget.
5. Create Stunning Visuals Without a Graphic Designer
AI tools like Canva’s Magic Resize or Adobe Express allow you to create professional-looking designs for social media, presentations, or even that PTA flyer you promised to help with.
• How it saves time: Pre-designed templates get the job done fast.
• How it saves money: No need to hire a designer for simple projects.
6. Simplify Meal Planning with AI Recipe Generators
Apps like Whisk and Mealime take the ingredients you already have (because who has time to shop midweek?) and whip up meal plans tailored to your preferences.
• How it saves time: Automated grocery lists and recipes in minutes.
• How it saves money: Reduces food waste by using what’s already in your fridge.
7. Make Better Business Decisions with Analytics Tools
Platforms like Tableau, Google Analytics, or Microsoft Power BI use AI to turn raw data into actionable insights, even for beginners.
• How it saves time: Automatically creates reports and identifies trends.
• How it saves money: Helps small businesses optimize spending and operations.
8. Learn a New Skill Faster with AI Tutoring
From language learning on Duolingo to mastering coding with Khan Academy’s AI tools, personalized tutoring has never been easier—or more accessible.
• How it saves time: Tailored learning paths speed up mastery.
• How it saves money: Affordable alternatives to traditional classes or tutors.
9. Delegate Customer Service with AI Chatbots
If you’re running a small business, tools like ChatGPT and Tidio can handle customer inquiries 24/7 without you lifting a finger.
• How it saves time: Automates repetitive questions and issues.
• How it saves money: No need to hire round-the-clock customer support.
10. Organize Your Digital Chaos with AI Assistants
AI tools like Notion, Evernote, or even Apple Notes’ smart search features can declutter your digital life by organizing files, notes, and to-dos effortlessly.
• How it saves time: Finds what you need instantly.
• How it saves money: Saves hours otherwise wasted in digital scavenger hunts.
How to Get Started: A Beginner’s Guide
Here’s the thing: even the best tools won’t magically make you more productive if you don’t know how to use them. Start small—pick one or two tools that resonate with your needs.
1. Assess Your Goals: What tasks eat up most of your time or money?
2. Choose the Right Tools: Focus on beginner-friendly options with simple interfaces.
3. Learn the Basics: Many platforms offer free tutorials or user guides.
4. Track Your Progress: Measure time saved or money cut from your expenses after implementation.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—DigitizeU has your back.
The Bottom Line
AI isn’t just for techies or big corporations—it’s for anyone who wants to work smarter, not harder. By embracing these 10 tools, you can save hours, reduce costs, and even make your day-to-day life more enjoyable.
The question isn’t whether you should use AI—it’s how much time and money you’re losing by not starting today. At DigitizeU, we specialize in making AI accessible for everyone, especially beginners. Whether you’re a freelancer looking to save time or a small business owner cutting costs, our training programs will guide you step-by-step.
Onward and upward,
Chris Brya
CEO, DigitizeU
