Introduction
Whether you're a designer, marketer, or someone who has zero experience in creative work, AI tools can be extremely useful. While the fear of an AI takeover is on the minds of many, AI tools are simply that—tools. They can be used for good or nefarious purposes. Let's hope humanity will eventually understand this and put them to work for the greater good.
AI tools excel as on-demand collaborators. From brainstorming ideas for an upcoming work presentation to organizing existing thoughts and notes, AI has come a long way. Today, it's now easier than ever to make a splash if you're a brand-builder, influencer, or if you just want to share and promote a local venue, church, or non-profit you represent.
Below is a list of top-performing AI tools designed to help you level up. From brainstorming sessions to designing logos, animated graphics, or even entire websites (without coding knowledge), these resources will help you make your virtual (or print) dreams a reality in no time.
Who is AI Useful For?
AI can be useful for anyone. Accountants, brand coordinators, ministers, and even teachers can easily take advantage of what AI tools have to offer—right from the comfort of their own homes or workplaces. Those who have visual or physical disabilities and even individuals who proclaim to lack the ability to "be creative" can put AI to work for them. This provides accessibility to underserved populations and those who traditionally may feel left out of the creative design processes.
Brainstorming AI Companions
Sometimes, you might find yourself stuck when starting a new project, leading to persistent procrastination or avoiding your writing or work altogether. The following AI tools come in handy when brainstorming and getting the creative juices flowing:
- ChatGPT: Use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas for art, writing, or even solving problems. From generating homemade chore charts to incorporating creation platforms such as Canva, ChatGPT is a go-to tool that's a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their workflow.
- Jasper AI: For those who work in product or brand marketing, Jasper.ai assists with messaging and product launches across social platforms. Incorporating Jasper into your routine can save significant amounts of time.
- Notion AI: Building a resource site or a new knowledge base? Notion AI helps organize thoughts, notes, and ideas in a structured and accessible manner.
- Miro AI: Want to fast-track your next innovative idea, project, or storyline? Miro AI allows you to brainstorm, outline, and push your innovation process forward with ease.
- Canva Magic Write: Generate social media posts, blog descriptions, and outlines for your visuals. Magic Write helps merge visuals with the written word for cohesive storytelling.
AI Writing Tools
Writing is not always an easy or straightforward process for everyone. Whether you're stuck on a blank page or having difficulty moving forward with an existing project, the following AI tools can help:
- Sudowrite: Take AI storytelling to the next level. Use it to complete sentences, build cliffhangers, or assist with editing. Its "Muse" feature is tailored specifically for fiction writing.
- GrammarlyGO: While Grammarly helps with grammar, GrammarlyGO lets you shift tone and shorten sentences on demand—great for quick edits and rewrites.
- Rytr: Need writing templates for emails, product descriptions, or social media? Rytr offers built-in frameworks to save time and energy.
AI Music and Audio Creation
Creating AI-generated music and audio clips no longer requires expensive studio equipment. Try these tools:
- ElevenLabs: A popular option for voice-over creation in 29 languages. Free plans allow for 10-minute recordings—perfect for quick narrations or intros.
- AIVA: Download royalty-light instrumental tracks based on genre and mood. Great for videos, promotions, and web design projects.
- Soundraw: Ideal for loopable background music that can be edited. Modify the mood, intro, or chorus to match your aesthetic perfectly.
Visual Storytelling AI Solutions
Visual storytelling is accessible to anyone and everyone with the advent of AI tools. The following solutions can elevate any creative vision:
- MidJourney: One of the most popular AI image generators for personal and commercial use. Paid users enjoy private channels for creating and saving custom images.
- Canva AI Image Generator: Build brand-specific visuals with Canva’s AI generator—great for marketers looking for tailored, purposeful imagery.
- Dall-E3: Similar to MidJourney, Dall-E3 can generate art, posters, book covers, and surreal illustrations to match your creative vision.
Final Thoughts
AI doesn't have to feel scary, high-tech, or unapproachable—even for those who don't consider themselves to be "creatives." With the right tools, you'll be surprised at how imaginative you truly can be. Whether you're writing the next 'Game of Thrones' or designing unique branding assets for your nonprofit, AI tools—when used wisely—become invaluable additions to any creator’s toolkit.