How do I use ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity for school assignments without paying subscription?

Which free AI tools are best for my homework, and how can I set them up without getting overwhelmed?

Struggling with AI tools for school? This guide provides a simple, step-by-step setup for using the free versions of ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Claude to make studying and research easier. Ready to build your ultimate AI study toolkit? Follow our jargon-free instructions below to set up four powerful learning assistants in just a few minutes.

Let’s be real — AI tools sound exciting… until you try to use them.

You hear names like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini, and suddenly your head fills with questions:

“Do I have to pay for this?”
“Which one’s better?”
“Will this even work for school?”

Sometimes, you try signing up, feel lost, and give up before you even start.

But that ends now.

Because here’s the truth: with just four simple setups, your phone or laptop can become the smartest study buddy you’ve ever had. One that works 24/7. One that actually makes sense of what you’re trying to learn. And best of all — many of these tools are either free or have free versions that are incredibly powerful.

This guide will walk you through exactly what to do — no tech jargon, no guesswork, and no fluff.

Your AI Setup Guide Starts Here

You’ll set up four core tools:

• ChatGPT
• Gemini
• Perplexity
• Claude

Let’s walk through each one.

ChatGPT (by OpenAI)

Website: chat.openai.com

1. Sign up using your Google, Apple, or email account.
2. You’ll get access to GPT-3.5 for free. Want the advanced features like file uploads, GPT-4, or image input? That’s called ChatGPT Plus — $20/month.
3. Once inside, click on “Explore GPTs” to find ready-made helpers like “Math Tutor” or “Essay Coach.”
4. Download the mobile app if you want AI help on the go (highly recommended).

Best for: Breaking down hard topics, idea generation, essay structure, smart Q&A.

Google Gemini

Website: gemini.google.com

1. Log in with your Google account.
2. Gemini 1.5 Pro is often free (depending on your region) with some usage limits.
3. Ask it to summarize videos, generate presentation outlines, or even help with coding assignments.
4. If available, try the Chrome extension or integration into Google Docs and Gmail.

Best for: Concept explanations, working inside the Google ecosystem, multitasking assistance.

Perplexity AI

Website: perplexity.ai

1. No login needed, but signing up lets you save searches and access threads.
2. It responds with links and citations — perfect for assignments.
3. There’s a paid “Pro” version for GPT-4 and file upload support, but the free version is powerful for most school needs.

Best for: Quick research, verifying sources, deep dives into academic content.

Claude (by Anthropic)

Website: claude.ai

1. Sign in with your email. Works best in North America, but expanding rapidly worldwide.
2. Claude handles long documents beautifully. Paste an entire chapter or essay — it will break it down clearly.
3. Known for being safe, clean, and student-friendly.

Best for: Understanding dense study material, summarizing PDFs, breaking down complex ideas.

Bonus Productivity Hacks

Make the most of your setup:

1. Bookmark all tools in a browser folder called “Study AI”.
2. Install mobile apps where available.
3. Try browser extensions like “AI Chat” for quick prompts while browsing.
4. Use Claude’s Notebooks or ChatGPT’s Custom GPTs for ongoing projects.

Practice Task

Now that you’re set up, here’s your first real experiment:

1. Open all four tools.
2. Enter this prompt in each:

   “Explain photosynthesis in simple terms for a 10-year-old.”

3. Observe:
   • Which tool gives you the clearest explanation?
   • Which one adds visuals, citations, or examples?
   • Which one feels easiest to understand?

This isn’t just for fun — it’s your first step toward knowing when to use which tool.

Final Thoughts

AI tools aren’t just digital assistants — they’re like four different teachers with four unique styles.

One might be great for brainstorming, another for deep research, and another for summarizing your notes. The key is using them — not perfectly, just consistently.

So don’t stress over which is “the best.”
Instead, explore, test, and figure out what works for you.

You’ve now got access to the most powerful learning support system on Earth.
And it’s all in your hands — for free or at very low cost.

Take 30 minutes today.
Set up each tool.
Run your first test prompt.

Let the future of learning begin.