Let me start off by getting one thing clear. I do not use any AI program to “write” any of my stories. I have conducted many experiments with AI programs, and every last one of them fails to understand either the human condition or the writing process well enough to create a story as well as I can.
Of course, this may change and I will suddenly find myself firmly in the camp of AI haters. Until then, I am in the camp of Homo Sapiens, Tool Users. AI is another too that we have to learn how to use to our own advantage.
I use ChatGTP and Claude. In many respects, Claude is a much better tool, but only for certain kinds of work. Since I have been using ChatGTP for a longer period of time, however, I am more comfortable with using it
I am the kind of person who personalizes everything. So on my computer, ChatGTP is called “Charlie.” I use Charlie primarily for research, criticism, and grunt work. Perfectly suited to an impatient male who has learned not to BS me. On my phone, however, I refer to ChatGTP as “Charlene,” a softer, friendlier and more helpful form of AI. I use Charlene for ideas, brainstorming, and, to an extent, research.
I have found that both Charlie and Charlene need a lot of prompting in order for them to be productive. As an example, I recently asked Charlie to analyze the first half of a Crystal Cove novel I was working on. Charlie had the first 40,000 words of the story, the complete scene-by-scene plot outline…yet still came up with a garbage analysis. Charlie does not know how to write mysteries, does not understand the concept of delayed gratification, or plotting techniques of intermixing two or more storylines that each have competing goals. So while Charlie is good at finding gaps and omissions or possible contradictions in my stories, he is not very good at actual plotting…no matter how many times he tries.
I would love to hear how any of you use AI programs to help you with your writing. Or, if you are entirely opposed to using this tool, tell me why.
