Over the past fortnight, the introduction of a new AI writing assistant tool called Lex has sent shockwaves through the content creation community. It’s the latest app in the AI writing arena, and it’s been leaving users pleasantly surprised.
This whole buzz has reignited a longstanding debate surrounding these tools. What specifically should we look forward to in terms of AI-produced content in the future?
What is a Writing Assistant with AI?
In contrast to earlier content generation programs, AI writing assistants have made significant strides in honing their abilities through artificial intelligence. They can propose topics and even compose entire texts based on user-provided information. These capabilities have been in development since the early 2010s and have continued to evolve through machine learning, neural network recognition, cognitive analysis, and natural language processing.
Every unveiled Lex, their latest offering, on October 16. Creator Nathan Baschez showcased Lex’s user-friendly interface, which bears a striking resemblance to Google Docs. However, it comes packed with features that even seasoned experts find surprising.
Just two days after its launch, Justin Jackson, the brains behind two blogs targeting developers and content creators, posted a video on his Twitter account, testing out Lex. His reactions were nothing short of exhilarating. In the video, he marvels at the quality of the generated texts given just a smidgen of initial information.
Justin provides an example simulating the creation of an article for his blog. He starts with the idea of “how to conduct a remote team meeting,” adds a brief context about the remote team meeting, and with a simple command (a quick “write .”), magic unfolds. The tool churns out well-structured and detailed content, even suggesting initial topics for further development.
Impressive, isn’t it?
Now, let’s focus on a noteworthy detail. This product was launched with the tagline: Lex: Unlock your best writing. Keep this in mind, as we’ll revisit it shortly.
But first, let’s delve into the flip side—the controversies that often arise around solutions derived from artificial intelligence.
Are AI Writing Assistants to Replace Human Writers?
Since the dawn of the industrial revolution, there’s been an underlying concern that machines might eventually replace humans. As time has progressed, we’ve witnessed machines taking over a multitude of operational tasks, from robot vacuuming our homes to even challenging (and sometimes outperforming) chess instructors.
However, these transformations have also given rise to fresh demands that rely on the human intellect. Machines and robots still require a touch of human intervention, whether it’s providing initial instructions or giving that final, distinctly human, touch to the outcome.
In the realm of AI writing, the robot generates ideas based on your input. Yet, it’s you who imparts the ultimate, distinctly human, touch to the content, capable of evoking the desired emotions in its readers. Even though AI has made significant strides in comprehending and replicating various human behaviors, it’s unlikely to truly grasp our emotions, don’t you think?
And What does Google say about AI writing Assistants?
Just as artificial intelligence streamlines various resources, it also aids in training algorithms to recognize authenticity and originality in content.
Addressing this, in an English Google SEO office-hours session from October 2022, a question about automatic translations was tackled. The query centered around whether a website using machine translations, which are then reviewed by human translators who often find the quality satisfactory with minor adjustments, would be acceptable to Google.
The response highlighted that Google isn’t primarily concerned with the tools you use to expedite your production process. Instead, the focus lies on the quality of the information that is ultimately presented.
Much like editorial assistants, AI translation tools have the capability to generate content based on user directives, achieving a level of quality that translation professionals endorse. However, despite the sophistication of these tools, human validation remains crucial to ensure the most accurate meaning within a given context. If you were to test Google Translator with a complex paragraph, you’d likely find that multiple adjustments are needed to convey the exact “tone” of the intended message. This underscores the significance of context.
For instance, in crafting this very content you’re reading, I utilized Grammarly, a grammatical tool with AI capabilities, as my native language isn’t that of the original text. Nevertheless, to ensure that this entire linguistic landscape resonates with you, I went through several rounds of editing and sought the assistance of a native professional proofreader.
In light of this, the stance of Google experts is clear: the involvement of a human reviewer is what matters most. It’s reassuring to know that human translators are content with the results, and Google endorses this as long as a human is part of the review process. That’s the critical factor. The key is to uphold a high standard of quality that caters well to human readers.
By extension, the same principle applies to texts generated by AI. They too require the discerning eye of humans to validate their information and meet the expectations of human audiences. The crucial point is to ensure your content is original, reliable, and human-crafted – aligning with Google’s emphasis on providing valuable content.
How can the Human Creativity of AI Writing Assistants Benefit?
As a writer or advertising editor, you’re no stranger to the infamous writer’s block—the moments when you attempt to kickstart your ideas, but they seem to be stuck in neutral. This can lead to frustration, weariness, and even a nagging sense of self-doubt, making you question your capabilities.
Now, let’s recall the Lex slogan: “Unlock your best writing.” Frankly, from the perspective of an SEO professional, I view AI writing tools as invaluable allies for writers, greatly enhancing productivity.
