The Ultimate AI Guide for Financial Planning and More

Table of Contents

Redecorate a Room with AI Assistance

Redecorating a room can be an overwhelming task, but AI tools are making it easier to brainstorm and get started. Platforms like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot allow users to upload a photo of their room and enter prompts describing the desired look. For example, users can ask for “navy-blue walls and light wood furniture” or request that an office be transformed into a nursery.

These AI platforms also enable users to make tweaks by asking follow-up questions, such as “What if the walls were lighter?” While the image-generation process can be slow, users can upload photos of wallpaper, fabric, or furniture to see how they might look in their space. Describing the room to the AI and trading ideas until landing on the right look is another effective approach.

Jenna Gaidusek, an interior designer, notes that while AI cannot fully replace a homeowner’s efforts, it is a great place to get ideas. Specialized tools like Remodel Ai or Canva AI also generate images, but mainstream AIs are better at handling complex requests. However, users should be cautious, as AI may suggest materials that are hard to obtain or outdated trends. For instance, one test showed AI suggesting “velvet limewashed plaster,” which might not be readily available.

Plan a Workout with AI Guidance

AI can offer a more personalized fitness experience, though it may still fall short of a personal trainer. Jo Clubb, a sports-science consultant, explains that AI can recommend workouts based on age, sex, and goals. For example, if a user wants to build a beginner-strength routine using body weight and resistance bands, an AI tool can suggest a tailored plan.

Users can interact with AI to get advice on exercises, such as what sneakers offer good ankle support for treadmill running. While AI cannot provide real-time feedback, it can link to videos or images showing proper form. Sharing details like past injuries or current activity levels allows AI to adjust the plan accordingly. However, users should be cautious about injury risks and consider professional guidance.

Craft a Financial Plan Using AI

A recent Finra Foundation survey found 20% of U.S. adults interested in financial advice from AI. Andrew Lo, a professor of finance at MIT Sloan School of Management, notes that AI chatbots can provide broad financial plans based on age and goals. Users can ask for more tailored information or explanations, and back-and-forth exchanges are valuable.

Lo advises users to avoid sharing highly personal details like salary or specific assets, as this could pose risks if the AI is compromised. He also recommends avoiding large language models for calculations due to potential inaccuracies. Diverse AI platforms can provide varied advice, so users should run recommendations by professionals or trusted individuals.

Learn a Difficult Concept with AI Support

AI can help users dive into complex fields, but it's important to watch out for hallucinations and proceed step by step. Start by asking for a big-picture overview, such as explaining a concept to a 10th-grader. Then, research peer-reviewed articles and ask AI to synthesize findings. Use audio interfaces or tools like Google’s NotebookLM to generate podcasts.

If applying new knowledge practically, triple-check AI summaries against original sources. Ask multiple AI systems to summarize each article at a college level, then compare results to ensure accuracy.

Start a Hobby with AI Guidance

AI has become a valuable resource for picking up new hobbies, whether it's archery, songwriting, or woodworking. Users can ask AI to suggest hobbies based on interests and preferences. Once a hobby is chosen, AI can provide starting points, patterns, and tutorials. It can also act as a project tutor, helping identify mistakes and offering solutions.

For songwriting, generative AI can fit lyrics to a tune, offering best practices and technical guidance. After trying a hobby, users can share experiences with AI to receive tailored next steps.

Be Your Health Co-Pilot

Generative AI offers incredible potential to improve access to health information. John Ayers, head of AI at the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, notes that AI can serve as a helpful first pass for lower-risk scenarios. It can summarize medical articles, offer first-aid tips, and help patients ask smarter questions to their doctors.

However, AI should not replace clinical judgment. It cannot examine patients, order tests, or monitor conditions over time. Users should always confirm information with reliable sources and consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnoses and treatments.

Build a New Wardrobe with AI Help

AI can streamline wardrobe curation, especially when users know how to prompt the tool. Caroline Reppert, director of AI and Technology policy at the National Retail Federation, suggests specific inquiries like, “Show me linen-blend dresses under $150 in neutral colors.” AI excels at sorting by fabric, price, and sustainability.

Some AI platforms work independently of retailers, while others are embedded into major apps. Think of Spotify’s recommendation engine applied to fashion. Results can vary, so users should remain open to different suggestions.

Improve Your Trip Planning with AI

Planning a vacation can feel like a second job, but AI can simplify the process. Nathan Lump, senior vice president and editor in chief of National Geographic, says AI can reveal un-touristy towns, under-the-radar museums, and family-run restaurants. Users can input destination, dates, interests, and budget to receive detailed itineraries.

However, travelers should confirm opening hours, prices, and availability, as some travel information may be outdated or inaccurate.

Find a Job with AI Assistance

Generative AI tools are becoming career assistants, helping find job opportunities and offering advice on landing them. Jennifer Bobrow Burns, managing director of Executive MBA and Alumni Career Development at Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, advises being specific from the start. Upload a résumé and tell AI about passions and talents to find matching job titles.

Tailoring a résumé for specific jobs involves pasting job postings and bullet points, then asking AI to enhance relevance. Cover letters should be structured by AI but personalized with anecdotes and company-specific details. Interview preparation can involve AI playing recruiter or hiring manager roles, but answers should not be memorized verbatim.

Plan Creative Landscaping with AI

Landscaping combines science and art, and AI can assist with both. Users can upload a photo of their lawn and ask for popular styles or specific features like privacy hedges or gardens. AI can tailor suggestions based on climate and maintenance needs.

Chris Enroth, a horticulture educator, advises double-checking plant compatibility and requirements. AI can also help diagnose plant issues and identify pests. For technical questions, limit AI’s search to academic or government sources to avoid marketing material.

Fix Your Car with AI Guidance

Scotty Kilmer, a mechanic, notes that AI can diagnose car problems and provide tests for issues like dead batteries or broken alternators. Uploading images of stains or other visual indicators can help AI identify potential issues. Basic repairs, like tire changes or windshield wiper replacements, can be easier with AI-generated instructions.

For complex systems, AI may be less effective, but it can help vet repair estimates. Newer tools like MechAI can filter useful information from reliable sources.

Prepare Healthier Meals with AI Help

AI can be a big help in the kitchen, particularly for preparing healthier meals. Liz Weiss, a registered dietitian nutritionist, notes that AI can break down calories, protein, fiber, and sodium content. Providing exact measurements and ingredient brands ensures more accurate nutritional breakdowns.

AI can also generate weekly menus and shopping lists, focusing on health and efficiency. Users can ask for meal plans based on daily calorie goals or specific nutrients. Special diets, such as Mediterranean food or recipes with five-star reviews, can also be tailored with AI assistance.