When to Use AI

Guidelines for deciding when AI assistance is appropriate and when to work without it.

AI is not appropriate for every task. Sometimes it helps tremendously; sometimes it is counterproductive; sometimes it is actively risky. Developing judgment about when to use AI - and when not to - is a key skill. This topic provides a framework for those decisions.

Objectives

Evaluate tasks for AI appropriateness
Recognize when AI assistance is beneficial
Identify situations where AI is risky or counterproductive
Make intentional decisions about AI use
Avoid defaulting to AI without consideration

Key Takeaways

Not every task is appropriate for AI assistance
Match AI use to your goals: learning vs. production matter
Higher stakes require more verification or less AI
Ask "Why AI?" before defaulting to it
Sometimes not using AI is the right choice