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Generative AI for Beginners

A 21-lesson course from Microsoft on how generative AI works and how to build with it.

What it does

This is a course with 21 lessons about generative AI, the kind of AI that writes text or makes images. Each lesson stands alone, so you can start wherever you like.

Some lessons explain ideas, such as how large language models work, how to pick a model and how to use AI responsibly. Others are hands-on and include code examples in Python and TypeScript.

Each lesson comes with a short video, a written lesson and links to further reading. The course is translated into many languages.

Who it's for

Beginners who want to understand generative AI, and new developers who want to start building AI apps.

Can I use it without coding?

Yes. The lessons and videos can be read and watched in a browser. The coding exercises need some Python or TypeScript and an AI service account. New to this? Start here.

Can I run it?

Cost
FreeNothing to pay or sign up for.
Computer
An ordinary computer is fine
Privacy
Your choice: run it on your device or use an online service
API key
Not needed

Try it

  1. Fork the course to your own GitHub account, then start with the Course Setup lesson.
  2. To run the code, use an OpenAI or Azure account, or Foundry Local on your own device.

Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?

Before you install

  • Only download from the official GitHub page. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
  • License (MIT): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
  • More on staying safe