AI tools can handle the boring parts of work: first drafts, summaries, images and research. Here are seven types of free AI tools worth trying, with well-known examples of each. Free limits change often, so check each tool’s current plan.

1. AI chat assistants

ChatGPT, Claude and Google Gemini can explain topics, brainstorm ideas, fix grammar and draft emails. Start here because one assistant covers many jobs.

2. Design tools

Canva offers templates and AI helpers for social posts, thumbnails and posters, even if you have no design skills.

3. Writing checkers

Grammarly and similar tools catch spelling and tone problems before you publish or send a message.

4. Meeting and voice transcription

Tools like Otter turn recordings into searchable text, which saves hours of note-taking.

5. Research helpers

AI search tools such as Perplexity summarise a topic and show sources, so you can verify them yourself.

6. Presentation and document tools

Many apps now build a first-draft slide deck or document from a short prompt. Always edit the result so it sounds like you.

7. Video and audio editors

Editors such as CapCut add captions, trim silence and clean up audio automatically.

Tips for using AI well

• Treat AI output as a draft and check facts.
• Never paste passwords, bank details or private client data.
• Pick one or two tools and learn them properly instead of trying everything.

Which AI tool do you use most? Tell us in the comments.