The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), especially generative AI, has brought about a paradigm shift in content creation. Generative AI tools like GPT-4, Google Bard, Jasper and others have revolutionized the way we approach content development, offering unparalleled efficiency and a solid foundation to build upon. However, while AI excels in providing a starting point, the human editing process that transforms raw AI output into content that resonates with readers should never be neglected.
We’ve started referring to this editing process as “Un-AI”-ing, and it requires an understanding of both human creativity and the capabilities (and limitations… especially the limitations) of AI tools. By mastering the art of Un-AI, content creators can easily harness the power of AI while preserving the authenticity and connection that only human touch can provide.
To achieve this, content creators should follow a seven-step process:
1. Craft a Creative Intro
The opening lines of your content are crucial for setting the tone and capturing the reader’s attention. Avoid AI-generated cliches – especially when the target audience is B2B, you’ll notice quickly that most AI-generated content has very similar opening lines – and instead, craft an authentic and natural intro that reflects your unique voice. This is your opportunity to establish a genuine connection with your audience and draw them into the content.
2. Incorporate Anecdotes and Statistics
Weaving real-world examples and verified statistics into your content adds credibility and depth. Customer stories, case studies, and up-to-date data can transform your content from generic to engaging, making it more relatable and impactful for your readers.
3. Eliminate Repetitive Elements
While AI is adept at generating text, it may struggle with maintaining coherence and avoiding repetition. Carefully review the content for repeated phrases, sentences, or entire sections, and any overused words. Removing these repetitions will enhance readability and make your content more concise and engaging.
4. Revise AI-Typical Language
AI tools often produce text that exhibits stereotypical patterns, such as the overuse of phrases like “delve deeper,” “nuanced,” “paramount,” or “x is king.” Additionally, AI-generated content may follow predictable formats that can make it sound monotonous. Identify and revise these AI-typical elements to make your content sound more natural and human-written.
5. Diversify Your AI Tools
If you rely on a single AI tool for the entire content creation process, this limits the potential for variation and creativity. Consider using different AI tools for different stages of content development, such as outlining, drafting, or revising. Or create multiple drafts from which to assemble your content. This approach can introduce a variety of styles and reduce monotony, as different AI tools may use different training data.
6. Fact-Check Thoroughly
AI-generated content is not immune to errors (also known as “hallucinations” in the AI world). Always fact-check every piece of information, including verifying any sources cited by the AI. Ensuring the accuracy of your content is paramount for maintaining credibility and building trust with your audience.
7. Re-read with Your Audience in Mind
Before publishing your content, take a final pass with your target audience in mind. Consider whether the content is too simplistic or overly jargon-laden. The goal is to create value for your readers, so make revisions as needed to ensure the content is accessible and engaging.
Summary: AI Makes It Simple, But You Make It Human
It’s here, and there’s no stopping it – the combination of AI efficiency and human insight has expedited the process of content creation. But that doesn’t mean content quality has to suffer. By leveraging AI for initial content generation and then applying the art of Un-AI, content creators can produce high-quality, engaging material that not only conveys information but also connects with readers on a human level.
Want to learn more about how to use AI to expedite your content creation, while still maintaining the human touch for your audience? Contact us for a strategic chat.