Can AI make you a better writer?
The first post of the Prompt & Prose newsletter.
Absolutely.
But only if you use it as a tool and not a crutch. I’ll elaborate on that in a bit.
But first, seeing as how this is the first time I publish something, I should probably introduce myself.
I'm Niclas (or Nick), and I’ve worked in the intersection of language and technology for over a decade, using AI-driven tools to ply my trade in the fields of translation and writing. During that time, I’ve experienced firsthand how AI assistance—when used thoughtfully—can enhance your writing and make you more productive.
I started this publication to share my journey, lessons learned, and the challenges and opportunities AI presents in the world of writing.
The fact is that many of us aren’t using it to its full potential, or even correctly.
Too often, people rely on AI to do the writing for them, thinking it can replace the effort and thought that good writing requires. The result is often generic, forgettable content that blends into the noise.
The truth is, if you want to create work that stands out, you can’t outsource the essence of your voice or the clarity of your thinking. AI is a tool, not a substitute; it’s there to enhance your creativity, not replace it.
AI is not a magic wand. It can’t do your writing for you. What it can do, however, is amplify it:
It can help you perfect your style, identifying your strengths and what makes you distinct.
It can boost your creativity, helping you overcome writer’s block, generate new ideas, and try out new stylistic variations.
It can speed up your drafting, allowing you to focus more on what you want to say in your next piece of writing rather than how to say it.
It can help you write for the audience you want to target.
It can sharpen the point you want to make and highlight biases in your thought process.
The only way to survive the tsunami of mediocre AI-generated content sweeping the Internet today is to stand out as a good writer.
A good writer communicates ideas with clarity, authenticity, and impact. They understand their audience and shape their message to resonate, balancing technical skill with emotional intelligence. Good writers have a distinctive voice that reflects their unique perspective, making their work memorable and engaging. They are adaptable, able to switch between styles and tones depending on the context, yet they never lose the essence of their individuality. They approach their craft with curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to revise relentlessly, shaping raw ideas into polished, compelling narratives that connect with readers on a deeper level.
You can’t turn AI into a good writer. But you can use AI to produce good writing.
That’s what makes this publication different from many of the others I’ve seen that cover AI and writing: My goal is to help you stand out with the help of AI, not to help you outsource your writing or creativity with a collection of half-assed prompts.
If this resonates with you, stick around. Subscribe for updates, share your thoughts, or send me a message if you’d like to connect.