How to Spot AI-Generated Writing Without Using Detection Tools
By
Erik Ofgang
An everything bagel for the brain. Substantive, layered, well-seasoned.
Summary
The article discusses how to detect AI-generated writing without relying on technology, based on the author's experience as an educator receiving AI-written student work. Key tells include flat, lifeless writing that strings words together without conveying real meaning, overly perfect grammar, lack of personal voice, and generic phrasing. The author provides practical tips for spotting AI content through careful reading and analysis of writing patterns.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledThe biggest AI tell for me these days is that the writing just feels flat and lifeless with a lot of words strung together that don't really convey meaning.
AI writing is everywhere these days. I see it in student papers, in some of their emails, in Instagram posts from local restaurants, in newsletters I quickly unsubscribe to.
As more of my students have submitted AI-generated work, I've gotten better at recognizing it.
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