Use the phrase to stress that something is very easy or obvious, even for someone with no expertise. Any fool could operate this machine; it's so simple.
Pro Tip 2/3
Sarcasm tool
The phrase might carry a tone of sarcasm, implying the other party is missing something obvious. Any fool can see that won't work. Why can't you?
Pro Tip 3/3
Understatement
Sometimes used to understate the intelligence required, suggesting the task is simpler than it appears. Any fool could learn these rules, but mastering them is another story.