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Unlocking the Matrix: Generative AI for Beginners—Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries and reshaping society, making AI literacy essential in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape. This comprehensive guide introduces generative AI concepts for beginners, offering foundational knowledge on technologies like GPT-4, Large Language Models (LLMs), and neural networks. It explores the inner workings of GPT-4 and LLMs, the structure and function of deep learning and neural networks, and practical applications of AI technologies across various industry sectors.
Designed to make AI accessible, the book covers real-world applications in fields such as art, design, business, and IT, revealing how AI can drive innovation and productivity. It offers insights into practical machine learning, emphasizing the significance of ethical AI development and responsible innovation. Readers gain strategies for using AI tools like ChatGPT, which enhance problem-solving and creativity through effective prompt design, and an understanding of quantum computing’s potential to revolutionize AI.
With simplified explanations, examples, and future-focused insights, this book provides readers with the tools to understand and engage with AI on a practical level, preparing them to navigate and contribute to an AI-driven world. Offering a comprehensive overview of AI technologies, their applications and workings, the book targets several audiences. It is suitable as a guide for those who are curious to learn more about AI, as well as for business professionals discovering the potential of AI to develop their work projects and careers, and for IT and technical specialists transitioning into the field of artificial intelligence.
Designed to make AI accessible, the book covers real-world applications in fields such as art, design, business, and IT, revealing how AI can drive innovation and productivity. It offers insights into practical machine learning, emphasizing the significance of ethical AI development and responsible innovation. Readers gain strategies for using AI tools like ChatGPT, which enhance problem-solving and creativity through effective prompt design, and an understanding of quantum computing’s potential to revolutionize AI.
With simplified explanations, examples, and future-focused insights, this book provides readers with the tools to understand and engage with AI on a practical level, preparing them to navigate and contribute to an AI-driven world. Offering a comprehensive overview of AI technologies, their applications and workings, the book targets several audiences. It is suitable as a guide for those who are curious to learn more about AI, as well as for business professionals discovering the potential of AI to develop their work projects and careers, and for IT and technical specialists transitioning into the field of artificial intelligence.
- GenresTechnologyNonfiction
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 10, 2025
13 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
Alex Quant
2 books4 followersAlex Quant is a PhD, a visionary tech enthusiast who has carved a niche for herself as an authoritative voice in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, futurology and innovations, cryptocurrencies and blockchain. With an extensive background in IT and technology development, she has dedicated her career to exploring the intersections of cutting-edge tech and its implications for the future.
An ardent believer in technology’s transformative power, Alex has spent over a decade demystifying complex concepts for the everyday reader. Her passion lies in making complicated technologies accessible and understandable to everyone, from tech novices to seasoned professionals.
Through her writing, Alex is committed to offering insights into the practical applications of rapidly evolving IT innovations. She aims to enlighten her readers about the potential of disruptive tech to revolutionize industries, enhance our personal lives and careers, and address global challenges. Her mission is to empower her readers with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world and recognize the opportunities it offers them.
Beyond her professional work, Alex enjoys early morning walks with her dog, conversing with blue herons, and capturing the intricate beauty of nature through photography.
An ardent believer in technology’s transformative power, Alex has spent over a decade demystifying complex concepts for the everyday reader. Her passion lies in making complicated technologies accessible and understandable to everyone, from tech novices to seasoned professionals.
Through her writing, Alex is committed to offering insights into the practical applications of rapidly evolving IT innovations. She aims to enlighten her readers about the potential of disruptive tech to revolutionize industries, enhance our personal lives and careers, and address global challenges. Her mission is to empower her readers with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world and recognize the opportunities it offers them.
Beyond her professional work, Alex enjoys early morning walks with her dog, conversing with blue herons, and capturing the intricate beauty of nature through photography.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 20, 2025
Solid foundational information about AI.
Read
March 16, 2025In an era where AI is reshaping daily life, Generative AI for Beginners offers an accessible introduction by an author who has the credentials to speak to the subject. Dr. Alex Quant, PhD, is a visionary tech enthusiast who has established herself as an authoritative voice in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain.
Her book helps simplify complex AI concepts, explaining how large language models work in a way that’s engaging and easy to grasp. She provides valuable historical context, helping readers understand not just what AI is, but how it evolved and where it’s headed.
The book’s greatest strength is its effort to connect AI to everyday life. It highlights how AI assists in drafting emails, generating creative content, and supporting small businesses. Unfortunately, while these examples are useful, they often lack the depth needed to feel truly tangible—a missed opportunity for making AI’s real-world impact clearer.
The biggest drawback is the overly technical middle chapters, where discussions of model parameters and neural networks become dense and potentially alienating for true beginners. Additionally, ethical considerations—such as bias, misinformation, and AI’s broader societal impact—are touched on but not explored in depth, making the book feel more like an explainer than a critical examination.
The final chapters bring a well-balanced outlook on AI’s future, avoiding both excessive hype and dystopian fears. While the book isn’t perfect, it provides a solid foundation for those looking to understand the technology shaping our world.
The Verdict:
Despite some technical detours and a lack of deep ethical discussion, Generative AI for Beginners is a strong starting point for AI newcomers. Readers may need to skim certain sections, but the book succeeds in equipping them with a fundamental understanding of generative AI.
Rating: 3.5/5
Her book helps simplify complex AI concepts, explaining how large language models work in a way that’s engaging and easy to grasp. She provides valuable historical context, helping readers understand not just what AI is, but how it evolved and where it’s headed.
The book’s greatest strength is its effort to connect AI to everyday life. It highlights how AI assists in drafting emails, generating creative content, and supporting small businesses. Unfortunately, while these examples are useful, they often lack the depth needed to feel truly tangible—a missed opportunity for making AI’s real-world impact clearer.
The biggest drawback is the overly technical middle chapters, where discussions of model parameters and neural networks become dense and potentially alienating for true beginners. Additionally, ethical considerations—such as bias, misinformation, and AI’s broader societal impact—are touched on but not explored in depth, making the book feel more like an explainer than a critical examination.
The final chapters bring a well-balanced outlook on AI’s future, avoiding both excessive hype and dystopian fears. While the book isn’t perfect, it provides a solid foundation for those looking to understand the technology shaping our world.
The Verdict:
Despite some technical detours and a lack of deep ethical discussion, Generative AI for Beginners is a strong starting point for AI newcomers. Readers may need to skim certain sections, but the book succeeds in equipping them with a fundamental understanding of generative AI.
Rating: 3.5/5
January 14, 2025
Generative AI for Beginners is an insightful and comprehensive guide to the world of Artificial Intelligence. While the title suggests it’s tailored for complete beginners, the book leans more toward an intermediate audience with some technical background. It offers an impressive overview of AI’s capabilities and deep dives into concepts like GPT-4, neural networks, and generative AI tools. As a graduate student working with AI in limited capacities, I found it perfect for expanding my knowledge of algorithms and exploring other applications of AI beyond my current expertise.
What makes this book stand out is its practical and well-structured approach. The chapters are clearly labeled, making it easy to navigate or revisit specific topics. Real-world examples show how AI is revolutionizing industries like business, design, and IT, while the section on prompt engineering provides useful strategies for enhancing creativity and problem-solving with tools like ChatGPT. The author’s ability to simplify complex topics without losing depth makes this book accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers.
Another highlight is the thoughtful discussion of AI’s ethical implications and limitations. The book addresses the risks of relying too heavily on AI and offers practical solutions for mitigating those challenges. This focus on responsible development feels both timely and essential, making the book not just a technical guide but a meaningful exploration of AI’s role in shaping the future.
I received a free eARC from NetGalley, but all opinions are my own—and I’ll be buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or searching for a thoughtful gift for the AI enthusiast in your life, Generative AI for Beginners is an excellent choice. It’s a resource I’ll be returning to again and again. Highly recommended!
What makes this book stand out is its practical and well-structured approach. The chapters are clearly labeled, making it easy to navigate or revisit specific topics. Real-world examples show how AI is revolutionizing industries like business, design, and IT, while the section on prompt engineering provides useful strategies for enhancing creativity and problem-solving with tools like ChatGPT. The author’s ability to simplify complex topics without losing depth makes this book accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers.
Another highlight is the thoughtful discussion of AI’s ethical implications and limitations. The book addresses the risks of relying too heavily on AI and offers practical solutions for mitigating those challenges. This focus on responsible development feels both timely and essential, making the book not just a technical guide but a meaningful exploration of AI’s role in shaping the future.
I received a free eARC from NetGalley, but all opinions are my own—and I’ll be buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or searching for a thoughtful gift for the AI enthusiast in your life, Generative AI for Beginners is an excellent choice. It’s a resource I’ll be returning to again and again. Highly recommended!
February 26, 2025
Generative AI for Beginners is an insightful and comprehensive guide to the world of Artificial Intelligence. While the title suggests it’s tailored for complete beginners, the book leans more toward an intermediate audience with some technical background. It offers an impressive overview of AI’s capabilities and deep dives into concepts like GPT-4, neural networks, and generative AI tools. As a graduate student working with AI in limited capacities, I found it perfect for expanding my knowledge of algorithms and exploring other applications of AI beyond my current expertise.
What makes this book stand out is its practical and well-structured approach. The chapters are clearly labeled, making it easy to navigate or revisit specific topics. Real-world examples show how AI is revolutionizing industries like business, design, and IT, while the section on prompt engineering provides useful strategies for enhancing creativity and problem-solving with tools like ChatGPT. The author’s ability to simplify complex topics without losing depth makes this book accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers.
Another highlight is the thoughtful discussion of AI’s ethical implications and limitations. The book addresses the risks of relying too heavily on AI and offers practical solutions for mitigating those challenges. This focus on responsible development feels both timely and essential, making the book not just a technical guide but a meaningful exploration of AI’s role in shaping the future.
I received a free eARC from NetGalley, but all opinions are my own—and I’ll be buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or searching for a thoughtful gift for the AI enthusiast in your life, Generative AI for Beginners is an excellent choice. It’s a resource I’ll be returning to again and again. Highly recommended!
What makes this book stand out is its practical and well-structured approach. The chapters are clearly labeled, making it easy to navigate or revisit specific topics. Real-world examples show how AI is revolutionizing industries like business, design, and IT, while the section on prompt engineering provides useful strategies for enhancing creativity and problem-solving with tools like ChatGPT. The author’s ability to simplify complex topics without losing depth makes this book accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers.
Another highlight is the thoughtful discussion of AI’s ethical implications and limitations. The book addresses the risks of relying too heavily on AI and offers practical solutions for mitigating those challenges. This focus on responsible development feels both timely and essential, making the book not just a technical guide but a meaningful exploration of AI’s role in shaping the future.
I received a free eARC from NetGalley, but all opinions are my own—and I’ll be buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or searching for a thoughtful gift for the AI enthusiast in your life, Generative AI for Beginners is an excellent choice. It’s a resource I’ll be returning to again and again. Highly recommended!
December 23, 2024
If you’re curious about Artificial Intelligence but feel overwhelmed by its complexity, Generative AI for Beginners: Unlocking the World of GPT-4 and Beyond is the perfect introduction. This audiobook breaks down AI concepts into approachable, practical explanations, making it ideal for both newcomers and professionals looking to explore how AI can enhance their work.
The guide dives into foundational topics like GPT-4, Large Language Models (LLMs), and neural networks, offering a clear understanding of how these technologies work. The detailed yet simplified breakdowns of deep learning and the mechanics behind generative AI gave me a strong grasp of concepts that once felt intimidating.
What really stood out were the real-world applications discussed throughout the audiobook. From art and design to business and IT, the examples showcase how AI is revolutionizing industries and driving innovation. The section on using tools like ChatGPT was particularly useful, especially the strategies for designing effective prompts to enhance problem-solving and creativity.
The ethical focus was another highlight. As AI continues to shape society, the emphasis on responsible development and innovation felt both timely and thought-provoking. The insights into quantum computing’s potential impact on AI added an exciting glimpse into the future, sparking ideas about how this technology could evolve.
The guide dives into foundational topics like GPT-4, Large Language Models (LLMs), and neural networks, offering a clear understanding of how these technologies work. The detailed yet simplified breakdowns of deep learning and the mechanics behind generative AI gave me a strong grasp of concepts that once felt intimidating.
What really stood out were the real-world applications discussed throughout the audiobook. From art and design to business and IT, the examples showcase how AI is revolutionizing industries and driving innovation. The section on using tools like ChatGPT was particularly useful, especially the strategies for designing effective prompts to enhance problem-solving and creativity.
The ethical focus was another highlight. As AI continues to shape society, the emphasis on responsible development and innovation felt both timely and thought-provoking. The insights into quantum computing’s potential impact on AI added an exciting glimpse into the future, sparking ideas about how this technology could evolve.
January 8, 2025
The book explains well the complexities of AI. Breaking down concepts like generative models, deep learning, and even quantum AI into digestible sections. It’s clear and engaging, making it perfect for readers who might be new to the field but also helpful for experienced professionals looking to refresh and organize their knowledge.
One thing I really appreciated was how practical the book is. The author doesn’t just dive into technical jargon but explains how AI is applied in real-world IT industries, creative fields, and even society and administration. The section on prompting and working with ChatGPT is especially valuable, giving tips on how to effectively communicate with AI systems - something we all need in this growing AI-powered world.
The ethical discussion towards the end was another highlight for me. It’s not just about the “cool” tech. The author also takes a thoughtful look at the challenges and responsibilities that come with AI. This part really made me reflect on the importance of using AI safely and responsibly.
Overall, this is a well-written, insightful guide for anyone curious about AI, whether you're just starting or already have some background. It feels like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend who is excited to share what they know. Highly recommend it!
One thing I really appreciated was how practical the book is. The author doesn’t just dive into technical jargon but explains how AI is applied in real-world IT industries, creative fields, and even society and administration. The section on prompting and working with ChatGPT is especially valuable, giving tips on how to effectively communicate with AI systems - something we all need in this growing AI-powered world.
The ethical discussion towards the end was another highlight for me. It’s not just about the “cool” tech. The author also takes a thoughtful look at the challenges and responsibilities that come with AI. This part really made me reflect on the importance of using AI safely and responsibly.
Overall, this is a well-written, insightful guide for anyone curious about AI, whether you're just starting or already have some background. It feels like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend who is excited to share what they know. Highly recommend it!
December 16, 2024
If you’ve ever wondered about artificial intelligence but didn’t know where to begin, this is the book for you. The book does a fantastic job of breaking down complicated ideas like GPT-4, Large Language Models (LLMs), and neural networks into concepts that everyone can understand.
Alex explains to readers how these technologies work and why they’re so important today, and if they impact our future.
What I loved most about this book is how practical the explanations are. It’s clear the book was written with beginners in mind, and it does a great job of making AI concepts understandable.
The style of writing is engaging, and the examples are easy to understand, which makes it a fun and engaging. If you are looking to learn something new, or just curious about AI, this book is an excellent starting point.
I’d definitely recommend it to anyone just getting started in this field. Well done Alex, and looking forward to more of your books.
Alex explains to readers how these technologies work and why they’re so important today, and if they impact our future.
What I loved most about this book is how practical the explanations are. It’s clear the book was written with beginners in mind, and it does a great job of making AI concepts understandable.
The style of writing is engaging, and the examples are easy to understand, which makes it a fun and engaging. If you are looking to learn something new, or just curious about AI, this book is an excellent starting point.
I’d definitely recommend it to anyone just getting started in this field. Well done Alex, and looking forward to more of your books.
January 7, 2025
This book sought to lower the barrier to understanding complex Artificial Intelligence theories, uses, and processes. I feel like it accomplished that task in an easy to understand way by rigorous structure of the topics. It is so easy to search through each topic as they are clearly labeled and straight to the point, rather than buried in walls of text.
Although I work with Gen AI in my career, I learned quite a bit from this book and will continue to keep it as a reference.
I appreciate the author including the common downsides/dangers of relying to heavily on AI, as well as proposed solutions for mitigating risks. This chapter in particular I feel needs to become more common knowledge as too many believe AI is infallible.
Great job! Well worth the read if you want to learn more about AI.
Although I work with Gen AI in my career, I learned quite a bit from this book and will continue to keep it as a reference.
I appreciate the author including the common downsides/dangers of relying to heavily on AI, as well as proposed solutions for mitigating risks. This chapter in particular I feel needs to become more common knowledge as too many believe AI is infallible.
Great job! Well worth the read if you want to learn more about AI.
January 6, 2025
This book is an accessible and insightful guide to understanding and leveraging artificial intelligence in our rapidly evolving digital world. By breaking down complex topics like machine learning, quantum computing, and generative AI, it demonstrates how these technologies are transforming industries and everyday life.
What makes this book stand out is its focus on empowering readers to use AI as a tool for creativity, productivity, and innovation while addressing ethical considerations and societal impacts. This book equips you with the knowledge to thrive in the AI-driven future and actively shape its potential for good.
What makes this book stand out is its focus on empowering readers to use AI as a tool for creativity, productivity, and innovation while addressing ethical considerations and societal impacts. This book equips you with the knowledge to thrive in the AI-driven future and actively shape its potential for good.
January 29, 2025
This is a great reference to keep on hand for when you need a refresher on the basics of AI. It also serves as an excellent introduction for the ‘average Joe.’ I appreciate that the entire book is broken down into small, digestible paragraphs, making it easy to stay engaged. I agree with the sentiment that AI is a double-edged sword—while I’m excited, I’m also anxious to see how this technology advances. It’s essential that we educate ourselves about it so we can be better prepared to address the challenges it will inevitably bring to society.
*A big thank you to BooksGoSocial for providing this ARC via NetGalley! This is an honest review, and all opinions are my own.*
*A big thank you to BooksGoSocial for providing this ARC via NetGalley! This is an honest review, and all opinions are my own.*
June 5, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version of ‘Unlocking the Matrix’ by Alex Quant on Hoopla. While the narration started off a bit robotic, it gradually fit the tone of the content and grew on me. I finished the book over the course of a few bike rides.
The book is impressively comprehensive and educational, offering a solid foundation for understanding artificial intelligence, generative AI, and machine learning. Alex explains how these technologies work and also explores what’s possible. A great primer for anyone curious about the deep world of AI. It left me with a greater desire to learn more.
The book is impressively comprehensive and educational, offering a solid foundation for understanding artificial intelligence, generative AI, and machine learning. Alex explains how these technologies work and also explores what’s possible. A great primer for anyone curious about the deep world of AI. It left me with a greater desire to learn more.
December 17, 2024
I enjoyed listening to this book about generative AI for beginner because it has some points of which I was not aware. For instance, in order for AI such as ChatGPT to work optimally, you have to know the best prompts to ask before it will generate something that can be useful to you. Another interesting area that's new to me is the chapter on quantum computing and machine learning. Ethics are also another area that we must consider when using this technology. It all sounds like science fiction, but it's here and now!
December 18, 2024
I’ve always been curious about AI but found it a bit intimidating—this book broke it all down in a way that actually clicked for me. What sets it apart is that it’s not just about ChatGPT—it covers a range of AI concepts, tools, and applications, giving a full picture of how this tech works and where it’s heading. I appreciated the practical focus and clear examples that made complex concepts feel approachable. If you’re looking to demystify AI without getting lost in jargon, this is absolutely worth your time!
December 12, 2024
A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Generative AI!
Alex Quant has done an excellent job of breaking down the complex world of generative AI into easily digestible concepts. This book provides clear explanations of GPT-4, large language models, deep neural networks, and practical machine learning. It's perfect for beginners and a valuable resource for anyone curious about the future of AI. Highly recommended for unlocking the secrets of AI technology!
Alex Quant has done an excellent job of breaking down the complex world of generative AI into easily digestible concepts. This book provides clear explanations of GPT-4, large language models, deep neural networks, and practical machine learning. It's perfect for beginners and a valuable resource for anyone curious about the future of AI. Highly recommended for unlocking the secrets of AI technology!
December 17, 2024
I listened to this audiobook to learn more about AI, and it made everything so easy to understand. It simply explains big ideas like neural networks and tools like ChatGPT without getting too technical. I also loved the real-life examples—they showed how AI is used in business, art, and design, making the book more relatable. It’s a perfect starting point for anyone curious about AI and how it can be part of everyday work and life.
December 21, 2024
Great intro to Generative AI
I found this audio book incredibly helpful for understanding the basics of generative AI and how tools like GPT-4 work. It breaks down complex concepts like neural networks and machine learning into simple, manageable explanations. The practical examples will help you see how AI applies to everyday situations, which makes the learning process engaging. If you’re curious about AI but don’t know where to start, this guide is a great choice for beginners!
I found this audio book incredibly helpful for understanding the basics of generative AI and how tools like GPT-4 work. It breaks down complex concepts like neural networks and machine learning into simple, manageable explanations. The practical examples will help you see how AI applies to everyday situations, which makes the learning process engaging. If you’re curious about AI but don’t know where to start, this guide is a great choice for beginners!
January 11, 2025
Received the book for a voluntary and honest ARC review.
Good book that makes AI understandable for everyone.
The author provides easy to understand explanations about AI and the computing processes that run to make AI work. Technical terminology are explained in everyday language.
How AI is used in various businesses is explained well.
A very complex computing process is explained in everyday language.
The book is informative and interesting.
Good book that makes AI understandable for everyone.
The author provides easy to understand explanations about AI and the computing processes that run to make AI work. Technical terminology are explained in everyday language.
How AI is used in various businesses is explained well.
A very complex computing process is explained in everyday language.
The book is informative and interesting.
December 16, 2024
Generative AI for Beginners: Understanding Artificial Intelligence. Unlocking the Matrix with GPT-4, LLMs, Deep Neural Networks, and Practical Machine Learning Is amazing and has a great tool for beginners to learn how to use AI and get better results from it. Very helpful and informative.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2025
This is such an interesting read which may open your eyes up to just what AI may bring to our lives. Full of very interesting insights and how it may affect us in the future
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I found it very interesting
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I found it very interesting
January 6, 2025
Worth to take time to read and learn!
Comprehensive and educational book about one of the cornerstones of our future. The frequent use of bullet points disrupts the reading flow and makes it harder to remain fully engaged with the narrative.
Comprehensive and educational book about one of the cornerstones of our future. The frequent use of bullet points disrupts the reading flow and makes it harder to remain fully engaged with the narrative.
October 1, 2025
Yes, the information is factual, but I’m pretty convinced this was also written by AI which provides a fantastic exploration of generative AI and the “research” behind it available for public consumption.
December 26, 2024
A great insight into AI, its different forms, structures, potentials. Very helpful to keep up to date in one, or maybe the most, revolutionary change of our reality.
Want to read
February 3, 2025My Goodreads ebooks do not make it to my Amazon Kindle reader.
January 11, 2025
AI can be so scary. This book does a great job of helping a beginner understand and it not to look so intimidating. My favorite take-aways were about not only HOW to use it, but also WHEN. I often overlook times when it could be very helpful. The smart "prompt" advice gives me a foundation of what to put in so I get what I am looking for OUT. Bravo to Alex Quant for a job well done!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews