# What do you actually need to tell an AI?

Enough for it to help: who the message is for, what you’re trying to do, and the details that matter.

Evidence: source-verified | Updated: 2026-10-24 | Edition: codex

## Tell it the situation

“Help me ask my landlord to fix the kitchen tap.”

That gives the AI plenty to start with. You can add that you’ve already asked once and want to sound friendly but firm. It doesn’t need your full address or your landlord’s phone number to draft the message.

Think about what you’d tell a friend while asking for help.

## Leave out the bits the task doesn’t need

For a birthday message, “my younger brother” is usually enough. For a reply to a customer, you can explain the problem without pasting their contact details.

Keep passwords, login codes and bank details out of the chat. They won’t help the AI write a better message.

## Sharing a file? Have a quick look first

A short paragraph may be enough instead of a whole document. In a spreadsheet, use the columns needed for your question rather than uploading everyone’s details.

For files from work, use the AI tools and sharing arrangements your team has agreed on.

## Find the setting when you need it

If you’re curious about how an app uses conversations, look in its settings for privacy or data controls. The wording differs between apps.

You can still start with ordinary questions about cooking, hobbies or learning something new. Give it the context that helps, and keep the rest to yourself.

## References

- [Gemini Apps Privacy Hub](https://support.google.com/gemini/answer/13594961?hl=en)