#19 Using Writing Assistants
Beyond an all-or-nothing approach, I’m exploring what matters when we use Gen AI for writing.
Photo by Glenn Carstens on Unsplash
If you’re reading this short piece, it’s because I’ve already exchanged a few words with ChatGPT. What do you expect? As a non-native English speaker who is constantly distracted by her children and other work commitments, I like having someone available 24/7 to check in and alert me if I make a mistake.
That being said, I’m conscious about not becoming my writing assistant’s assistant. (See this piece from Jane Rosenzweig for more on this topic). When an “assistant” corrects you, works fast, and suggests ideas you hadn’t considered, it raises the question: who is assisting whom?
As a researcher obsessed with writing for as long as I can remember, and someone who finds comfort in reading dictionaries and thesauruses, I’ll share my considerations. My goal is that next time you use your favorite AI tool—because we both know you will—it helps you be more mindful.
Could you tell me what you're asking? (grammar correction, generating ideas, arguing for Y, refuting X, exploring a topic)
Could you tell me what constraints are you imposing? (use plain English, maintain a specific format, length, etc.)
Could you tell me if you are critically engaging with the outputs? Do you know enough to recognize if the Gen AI tool is hallucinating (producing false information)? Are you in a hurry to accept the output at face value, or are you using it as a brainstorming exercise where YOU finalize the piece?
To wrap up: There is no single “right way” to use a writing assistant. Especially for non-native speakers, it helps us stop worrying about minor mistakes like the use of prepositions and frees up mental space to explore our ideas. That being said, it’s important not to outsource critical thinking to Gen AI tools. Prompt carefully, set boundaries, and mindfully decide on the final version of your piece.
👋🏽I’m Meltem…
I empower you to excel in your tech career by providing actionable writing advice that sets you apart. I do this by:
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