Using AI in Family History Writing
Behind the Scenes: Balancing AI Collaboration with Authentic Writing
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about my relationship with AI tools in the writing process. As someone who’s always enjoyed crafting words and structuring thoughts, I initially hesitated about using AI. Would it replace the spark of personal creativity? Could it blur my unique voice? I’ve had to grapple with these questions as I learn to integrate AI into my workflow.
One of my most significant shifts was realizing that AI can act as a partner rather than an intruder in the writing process. When I first started experimenting, it felt like letting another “mind” take over parts of my creative work, which led to some initial discomfort. The phrase “artificial intelligence” makes it sound like a tool with its own intentions. However, as I began to understand AI as an extension of my thought process, I grew to see it as a helpful assistant that doesn’t change the authenticity of my voice.
For instance, I’ve used AI to handle certain writing aspects that are time-consuming or prone to oversight, like grammar corrections, style adjustments, and formatting. When fully immersed in an idea, minor details might slip by in the excitement of getting my thoughts on paper. AI works here to polish these details, helping my work reach a higher standard without sacrificing originality. It’s like having an editor who points out the repetitive phrases I’m blind to or offers simpler phrasing that maintains my intended tone.
But the reservations are still there—which is a good thing. A healthy bit of caution reminds me that AI isn’t (and shouldn’t be) a substitute for my ideas or creativity. I’ve noticed that, at times, AI suggestions can lean toward sounding generic, a little too polished, or distant from the conversational tone I want. It’s tempting to just go with the AI’s choices, but I resist this, recognizing the importance of keeping my unique style and perspective at the centre. Authentic writing is more than words strung together perfectly; it’s about a voice, an intention, and a particular rhythm that only a human touch can bring.
To maintain this balance, I approach each project with a clear sense of when and where I’ll let AI step in. For example, I often draft the core ideas and structure myself, then use AI to help refine sections where clarity or flow could improve. By setting boundaries, I ensure AI only enhances what’s already mine. It’s a conscious effort to keep AI in the background while letting my personal thoughts and style take the lead.
Being open about using AI, especially in an age where its role is growing, feels important to me. AI tools can add tremendous value, but transparency about their involvement keeps our writing—and our relationship with our readers—grounded in trust. While AI can improve clarity and readability, it’s my ideas and experiences that fuel the words. Sharing this process lets readers understand the evolving role of AI in my work while showing that the essence of what I write is authentically mine.
Ultimately, I see AI as an incredibly useful tool in my toolkit, but one that works best in moderation. When used thoughtfully, AI helps clear up the technical hurdles, freeing me to do what I enjoy most: engage deeply with ideas, share stories, and connect with readers in a way that feels honest and personal. My writing process is still mine, and AI, for all its helpfulness, plays only a supporting role.
What about you? Have you tried using AI in your own creative work, or are you considering it? Do you have any reservations or strategies for maintaining your unique style when using AI? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Feel free to share in the comments.
