Entrusting AI, such as ChatGPT, with the task of crafting blog posts often yields a disconcerting blend of mechanical style and lackluster originality. Though the algorithm spins words with unflagging expedience, it fails to infuse the text with the intricate subtleties and emotional resonance that a human mind can evoke.
What does that mean? Well, I have no idea either. ChatGPT wrote the above for me. Honestly, it felt like I could have been reading the instruction manual for a rocket ship, not a blog post. It didn’t exactly inspire me to finish my coffee—more like make a second cup to get through it.
But this does give a pretty good example of why AI might not be the best choice when it comes to writing your articles or website blurbs:
1. AI Often Uses a Tone That’s About as Personal as a Fax Machine
As seen above, AI sometimes sounds like it’s trying too hard to be formal. It’s like when your aunt tries to send you a “cool” text message but ends up with a “Greetings, fellow youths!” It’s awkward, and not the kind of tone that’ll grab readers’ attention.
2. Google Might Penalise AI-Written Content
While Google says they don’t “punish” AI content, it does prioritise original, high-quality writing that demonstrates “expertise, trustworthiness, and authority.” If your blog is packed with AI-generated articles full of clickbait headlines and awkward phrasing, your content could be shoved down to the bottom of the Google search result pile. Think page 7—right next to your neighbour’s blog about how to train possums.
3. AI Can Be Factual…in the Same Way a Fortune Cookie is Factual
AI isn’t perfect. It might give you all sorts of fancy words, but sometimes, the information it provides can be more misleading than a GPS that says “Turn right” when you’re in the middle of a lake.
Take the case of New York lawyer Steven Schwartz in 2023, who was fined after submitting fake case law generated by ChatGPT in a personal injury case. The judge determined he’d made “false and misleading statements to the court.” Oops!
Even the paid version of ChatGPT doesn’t know what’s happening beyond September 2021, so if you’re asking it for something current, good luck.
But Here’s How AI Can Help with Content Writing
Despite its limitations, AI can still be a life-saver when it comes to a few tasks:
1. Idea Generation
Stuck with writer’s block? Ask AI to brainstorm article topics based on your subject—it can provide fresh ideas to get you started. It’s like having a brainstorming partner who doesn’t need coffee breaks.
2. Outlining
Before diving into the full writing process, you can have AI help you create an outline, ensuring your content is well-structured and thoughtfully organised. Think of it like a map before you embark on an epic road trip
3. Proofreading and Grammar Checks
AI can help spot spelling and grammar mistakes, ensuring your content appears professional. Even small errors can turn potential clients away, so it’s important to maintain error-free writing.
4. Headline Creation
Need a headline that actually makes people want to click? AI can whip up some eye-catching titles. (Just make sure they aren’t click-baity.)
5. SEO Optimization
AI can also help you sprinkle in those all-important keywords that Google loves. Just be mindful to avoid overuse, which might make your writing sound “spammy.”
6. Generating Bullet Points
If you need to break down your content into easily digestible sections, AI excels at creating bullet points, lists, and other structured formats that enhance readability.
While AI can certainly be a helpful tool for generating ideas, creating outlines, proofreading, and improving SEO, it’s not a substitute for good old-fashioned human creativity. When it comes to crafting content that truly resonates with your readers, AI can fall short.
Think of it as your trusty sidekick—use it for the grunt work, but don’t let it steal the spotlight. A little human flair goes a long way in making your content engaging, authentic, and fun to read.