To use Gemini well, take advantage of what makes it different: it works inside Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Drive, it has strong research tools, and it can be customized with Gems for repeated tasks. This tutorial covers setup, the most useful features, and the privacy settings to check, especially if you use Gemini for work.
Part of AI Tutorials. Last updated September 2026. Features vary by plan and country; see our Gemini review.
Step 1: Sign In and Set Up
- Go to gemini.google.com or open the Gemini app, and sign in with your Google account.
- For work, use your business Google Workspace account rather than a personal one, since data protections differ.
- Review Gemini Apps activity settings to control what is saved.
Step 2: Use the Features That Matter
| Feature | What It Is For |
|---|---|
| Gemini in Gmail | Summarize threads and draft replies |
| Gemini in Docs and Sheets | Draft, rewrite, and analyze in place |
| Gems | Custom assistants with saved instructions for repeated tasks |
| Deep Research | Multi-step research reports with sources |
| Canvas | Draft and edit documents or code side by side |
| Guided Learning | Step-by-step learning with checks for understanding |
| Gemini Live | Voice conversations on mobile |
Step 3: Create a Gem
Create a Gem for a task you repeat, such as “Client email assistant”: describe its role, your tone, and the format you want. Then use it every time instead of retyping instructions.
Step 4: Prompts to Try
- In Gmail: “Summarize this thread and draft a reply accepting the proposal but asking to move the deadline by a week.”
- In Sheets: “Which products had the biggest change in sales month over month?”
- Deep Research: “Research the main competitors in [market] and compare their pricing and positioning.”
Bonus: NotebookLM
Google’s NotebookLM is a free companion tool for working with your own documents: upload sources, ask questions with citations, and generate study guides, flashcards, and audio overviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gemini free?
Yes. Google AI Pro, at $19.99 a month, adds higher limits, more capable models, and 5 TB of storage.
How do I use Gemini in Gmail?
On eligible plans, Gemini appears in the Gmail side panel and in the compose window to summarize and draft.
What are Gems?
Customized versions of Gemini with saved instructions, useful for tasks you repeat often.