AI assistants are now more than simple answer machines. ChatGPT's new Study Mode, Claude's Learning Mode, and Gemini's Guided Learning represent a significant shift. Instead of just providing answers, these free tools act as adaptive, 24/7 personal tutors.
New Tools for Studying and Learning
ChatGPT Study Mode
Get Started: Select Study Mode from the plus menu when starting a new chat. [Screenshot]. Start with context. Tell ChatGPT what you want to learn, why, and what you already know. The model excels at adapting to your level and guiding you step by step.
My take: I’ve been experimenting with AI learning modes to understand the intricacies of venture capital investing. ChatGPT initially overwhelmed me with info [screenshot], then seemed to notice I was drowning and adjusted its pace. It must have seen my confused frown. 😵💫
Note: You can use “Study and learn” mode on mobile and with ChatGPT in a browser, but you can’t yet access it in the desktop app or within a ChatGPT Project. Below is a quick example of a dialogue in Study Mode 👇
Gemini Guided Learning
Get Started: Visit g.co/gemini/guidedlearning
My take: Gemini has been an excellent tutor. It replies concisely to my questions about venture capital. For example, so far it has:
Quizzed me (try a basic example)
Created a helpful infographic
Generated an audio overview, in the style of NotebookLM
Made me a custom Web page
Shared simple digital flashcards
The tangible artifacts help me visualize concepts and test my own understanding. The model takes a minute or so to produce infographics and a little longer to create audio overviews. I’m repeatedly returning to these materials to review what still feels fuzzy — arcane details of valuation, cap tables, dilution, and convertible notes. Below is an example of a scientific infographic 👇
Other Google Learning Tools
Illuminate turns academic papers and research into audio summaries
Learn About responds thoroughly and helpfully to any inquiry
Learning Coach Gem is an assistant you can chat with.
Little Language Lessons offers quick takeaways.
LearnLM is Google’s family of language models for learning, grounded in educational research.
Claude Learning Mode
Get Started: Select "Learning" from the style menu. This step initially confused me because the other options in that menu are writing styles.
My take: Claude's scenario-based questions —like these— push me to think through real-world situations to practice applying what I’m learning.
Tips: As you learn, ask Claude to create artifacts—little interactive apps— that help you practice what you're learning. Also request occasional challenges, case studies, or quizzes.
Advantage: Unlike ChatGPT, you can use Learning Mode within Claude Projects. That allows you to benefit from personalized learning alongside your uploaded documents and context. So you can upload a slew of files, reports, and research resources and let Claude tutor you on those materials.
Learn Mode vs. Answer Mode 🌟
Turn on the learning features for any of these AI assistants and you’ll quickly notice the difference.
Learning modes use Socratic questioning — asking rather than telling.
They adapt to your level of understanding.
They nudge you to make your own observations.
They help you test your understanding with informal quizzes.
They guide you step-by-step through complex topics rather than rushing to throw answers at you.
In learning mode, these assistants feel like tutors; in standard mode they’re more like interactive encyclopedias.
The difference is significant. On previous occasions when I wanted to analyze data, I'd ask for quick insights. In study mode I've learned, among other things, how to use pivot tables more effectively so I can analyze data more thoroughly myself. Rather than getting fish handed to me, I'm learning to fish.
Topics to try in learn mode
“How do tariffs impact supply chains?” or “How does cryptocurrency work?”
“Guide me through the basics of [science/math concept]”
“In what ways might Shakespeare have influenced Montaigne’s essays?”
“How do private equity firms operate? Help me understand the nuances.”
