AI Could . . .
Exploring the possibilities of AI-assisted writing
I’ve been all over the place on this. Should we embrace or actively boo AI-based writing?
In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly capable of performing tasks that were previously thought impossible for a computer to do. From facial recognition to data analysis, AI has enabled us to make huge strides in many areas of technology. AI is also being used to write content almost indistinguishable from that of a human writer. I’m not especially excited about this. It just is.
For example, AI-powered writing tools can be used to create blog posts that are both well-researched and optimized for SEO. AI writers can also be used to generate content for books, allowing authors to focus more of their time and energy on the creative aspects of writing such as developing characters, creating interesting plotlines, and fleshing out a story. In this sense, AI writing can take a lot of the stress out of the writing process, freeing up people’s time to focus on more important tasks. AI writing can help to reduce costs, as AI writers can produce content faster and more efficiently than human writers.
Nevertheless, there are still some challenges associated with AI writing. The technology is still relatively new, and there are still some kinks that need to be worked out. Additionally, AI writing isn’t yet able to capture the same creative flair that human writers can. Despite these drawbacks, AI writing is still a powerful tool that is worth exploring.
As AI writing technology develops, its capabilities will become even more significant. It can be used to create content that is more personalized and tailored to individual needs. AI writers can also help to automate the editing and proofreading process, making it easier for authors to produce error-free documents. Additionally, AI writers can be used to generate unique content for marketing campaigns, helping to capture the attention of potential customers. AI writing has the potential to revolutionize the way we create content, making the writing process more efficient and cost-effective.
Positives
I see at least two positives. First, AI writing is just a more advanced search (which we all do). Where AI is an upgrade to a Google search or a “Hey Siri, . . .” that is great. Second, the real work of writing is in editing. No writer likes to admit this, but it’s true. If AI provides base text, the work of editing—by a human being, preferably an experienced editor—can make base blah text shine.
Negatives
I also see at least two negatives. First, writers won’t be encouraged to develop their voice. I want to write so that if my name weren’t in the byline, you’d still know it was me by my writing style. It takes years and years and years and years and years to develop that kind of voice. I worry that young writers who are dependent on AI tools won’t do the hard work of developing their voice. I’m so paranoid about my voice that I frequently write longhand because I think typing on a keyboard will skew my voice. This is a big deal.
Secondly, AI will always be a curation of information. AI will always be the +51% of whoever has written on a topic. To be honest, the authors that have affected me have always been in the minority viewpoint. That is what made their writing worth reading. So, if we’re talking about “the best way to change a tire,” then AI is gold. However, if we’re talking about “the thoughts that need to challenge the current status quo,” then AI isn’t even in the right zip code and can’t be.
We’ll see how it all works out.
By the way, part of this post I wrote using AI. Can you tell which part?
First, any post with visual references to both “The Princess Bride” and “Star Wars” wins, independent of authorship. Second, oh, yeah, it’s pretty clear which elements are your versus the AI’s (looking at you, paragraphs 2-5!).