Do I use artificial intelligence (AI) in my writing? Yes, of course I do. Anything else would be a complete waste of time. It would be like trying to cut a plank with a butter knife when I have a saw at hand. But – and this is important – I’m still the author of the article, with a lot on my mind.
I’m writing this article because I’ve occasionally been asked how I use AI in my work – and because I believe in being transparent about it. For me, it’s about AI-assisted writing, not AI-generated content. I use the tool to save time and sharpen my message, but the voice and content are still mine.
AI helps me focus on the ideas and messages I want to convey, rather than spending unnecessary time polishing formulations and structure. It’s not about giving up control – it’s about getting more out of what I already want to express.
AI as a Partner, Not a Ghostwriter
Even though I use AI, that doesn’t mean I let it write my articles for me. I see it more as a collaborative partner – much like other writers use colleagues as sounding boards.
I provide the direction, the thoughts, and the tone – while AI helps me find the right words, structure the flow, enrich the content, improve the quality, or spark new ideas. That way, I keep my personal voice intact while saving time.
But let’s be clear: Even with AI, I can still spend hours on a single article before I manage to express what I really want to say. The tool makes me more efficient, but it doesn’t think for me – and it certainly doesn’t make me more creative.
And a little bonus: I often learn something along the way. AI shows me phrases and helps me articulate thoughts that were already there. Sometimes, I even gain new perspectives or inspiration to explore an idea more deeply. But the angles and the connections still come from me. It’s my perspective that shapes the text – AI just helps create flow.
Transparency in Practice
When AI has been used more extensively in the development of an article, I make that clear. I probably don’t have to disclose it, but I do it anyway. For me, it’s about taking responsibility for my content – even when technology is part of the process. Honesty still goes a long way, even in the AI era.
Shame and Stigma – But Why, Really?
One of the challenges I’ve encountered is the shame and stigma that still often comes with using AI. More than once, I’ve felt I had to defend my choice to use technology in writing – and honestly, I don’t quite get why.
There still seems to be a cultural pressure suggesting that creativity must be “pure,” “original,” and “organic,” and that using technology somehow devalues the work. But isn’t it time we asked a different question? Why do we still view tools as a threat rather than a support?
We’ve always used aids to make work easier and outcomes better. Nobody bats an eye when we use word processors with spellcheck – so why should it be any different with AI? Both are tools, and tools don’t make us less creative or insightful. They simply help us focus on what actually matters.
You’re not less smart because you use technology – any more than you’re worth less at work because you receive feedback and support from colleagues. You might be sharp on your own, but you wouldn’t be where you are without the people who gave you perspectives, questions, and ideas. So why should it be any different when the support comes from an algorithm?
I’m proud to use AI as a tool, just like I’m glad I can use a power drill to drive a screw – even though people used screwdrivers in the past. Technology is just a helper – and it doesn’t take away our own creativity.
Rules for Using AI in Writing
The EU has introduced something called the AI Act, a comprehensive set of regulations designed to ensure that artificial intelligence is used ethically and responsibly, with a strong focus on privacy, safety, and transparency. It classifies AI systems into risk categories, with strict rules for high-risk systems. Some uses are simply banned – like manipulative use of AI targeting vulnerable groups (such as children or at-risk individuals), social scoring à la the Black Mirror episode “Nosedive” (2016), and real-time facial recognition for surveillance.
Norway is currently working actively to implement this framework. And let’s be honest – we usually end up following the EU, often before they’ve even fully rolled things out. So it might be wise to stay ahead of the curve as soon as the EU starts speaking loudly about new rules.
Norwegian companies already using AI should evaluate the risks their systems might pose. Is it AI used in healthcare, law, or similar fields? Then it might be time to develop an AI strategy and bring in experts with technical and legal knowledge.
For those of you considering using AI in your writing like I do – transparency is key. Be clear that AI is involved, and stay away from tools that could be perceived as manipulative or unethical. Copyright and responsibility for the content still apply – even if it was generated with the help of an algorithm.
In short: Honesty lasts longest – even in the world of AI.
Tips for Those Considering Using AI in Writing
Using AI in your writing isn’t about handing everything over to a machine – it’s about using technology as a smart assistant. For me, that means I can spend more time developing ideas and less time trying to find the perfect words or structure. If you’re considering – or already using – AI, here are a few tips:
- Be transparent: Let people know you use AI – honesty builds trust, and this will eventually become expected.
- Keep it real: Try to retain your personal voice in the text. AI is a tool – not a replacement.
- Learn while you go: AI can do a lot, but your insight and creativity are what make a piece shine.
- Use it professionally: Misusing AI can harm your or your company’s reputation. Having an internal AI strategy is wise. Certain industries should seek technical and legal guidance.
- Pay for AI if you can: Paid tools learn from you over time and become more effective – especially if you write frequently. I currently use free tools, which means I spend more time correcting and adapting the text because the AI doesn’t “remember” my previous work or writing style. Still, it saves me a lot of time.
I Write – AI Helps
Using AI in writing isn’t about handing over the reins – it’s about making the most of a great tool. I give it the direction – it helps me keep the path clear.
But AI only gives you answers to the questions you ask. It doesn’t draw the bigger lines for you, connect experiences and observations, or interpret subtle human nuances the way we do. You get exactly what you ask for – and nothing more.
The creativity, values, and voice in the text are still mine. Technology only changes the tools we use – not who we are as communicators. And it’s precisely in the combination of insight, experience, and good tools that the magic happens.
One final reminder: Apply source criticism. Fact-check. And never blindly trust AI – in writing or in thinking.
This article was written by me with support from an AI tool.
